A KAIROS ADVENT | KAIROS GLOBAL | JANUARY 2024

Intro: In December 2023, Kairos Media prepared two Advent-related series shared on social media – daily Christmas reflections titled ‘One Minute Christmas Sparks’ and videos narrating stories behind famous Christmas symbols and icons, ‘Rudolph Stories’. Both the entire series are available on the Cloud Catholic app. 

One Minute Christmas Sparks

A Midnight Mass in my Memory

Every year since childhood, it was tradition to attend the Christmas Midnight Mass with my family. That particular night was no exception— I was filled with joy, adorned in new clothes and sandals, and enveloped in the warmth of received gifts. But I found myself without an answer regarding my preparation to welcome Jesus. Around 10.30 that night, an unexpected physical illness played havoc from my participating in Midnight Mass. 

But more than Holy Mass, I longed to see the church decorations and the special Christmas programmes hosted later. But that night, while everyone else attended Midnight Mass, it was just me and Jesus. Despite the sacrifice of the King of kings for me, my lack of desire for him disturbed my mind greatly. 

A year went by, and the following Christmas I did not wish for any gifts… I refused new clothes… A year I wished to receive Jesus completely. For the first time as I attended Midnight Mass that year, singing 'Glory to God in the Highest and on earth peace to people of goodwill,' a tear rolled down my cheek. I embraced the Baby Jesus born in the Bethlehem of my heart. 

- Joshna MJ, Ernakulam, India

Rudolph Stories

The Candy Cane Story

Hi Friends,

Welcome to Rudolph Stories. Don't we all love candies and chocolates?! So, this time we shall delve into the tale of the Christmas candy cane – that walking-stick shaped candy with delightful white and red stripes. There are various tales about its origin, here's an interesting one for you.

Back in 1670, during a Christmas programme, a German singer kept finding it difficult to practise choir with the ruckus created by children. To hush them, he decided to treat them with something special, a Christmas-themed delight. This is how the Christmas candy cane took shape. 

It took the form of a shepherd's staff, a reminder of the shepherds visiting Baby Jesus. Some say it's a symbol of Jesus the Good Shepherd. Flip it around, and it even forms the letter 'J,' representing Jesus. The colour white symbolises the purity of Jesus, the Son of God. And red, the blood of Jesus shed for our salvation on Calvary. There's an intriguing flavour too – a hint of pepper, reminiscent of the taste of Hyssop, used for purification in ancient times. 

What started as a way to keep children quiet during Midnight Christmas Mass has now become an integral part of the Christmas season.

Did you enjoy the story of the little Christmas candy cane? As we prepare to receive Jesus, let's strive to grow in sanctity, mirroring his purity. Let's set aside mischievous tendencies and welcome Jesus with pure hearts. 

My friends, a crucial reminder – be reverent and silent inside church; it is the temple of God. The candy cane's story echoes this. Shall we commit to practising silence inside the church this Christmas? Are you all ready, my friends?

Until the next Christmas story, bye!