Christmas 2006 message from Ed Komarnicki, MP.

As Parliament officially recessed and I stepped outside the doors of centre block, the Peace Tower clock struck and the sound of Christmas bells and familiar Christmas pieces filled the air. How strange I thought that Christmas indeed is here!

A short few moments ago, speeches were being prepared and read and there was a flurry of activity in the lobby of the House of Commons. Now, a sense of the Spirit of Christmas started to take hold. I recalled the evening news the day before where I saw families at home and soldiers abroad in Afghanistan longing for each other during this Christmas season but yet separated by distance and the realities of conflict. I have seen the Canadian public show an outpouring of love and support to our soldiers by sending untold pieces of mail and unexpected huge volumes of supplies some of which could not be delivered. What touches us so during this time of year?

Amidst the turmoil and din of work and conflict is there an inner longing to hear the angels sing as hymnist Edmund H. Sears says in his famous hymn, “It came upon a Midnight Clear”. What made the German and allied soldiers just before midnight on Christmas Eve during World War I stop hostilities and exchange pleasantries as the air was filled with the easily recognized tune of “Silent Night, Holy Night”?

I can only imagine that it is the hushed respect and determined allegiance to someone higher than us, for indeed Christ the Saviour was born. We wish to be with family and to express ourselves by caring and giving and doing good, for that reflects the character of our Saviour. Is that not the message Sir Edmund speaks of in his hymn, “Peace on earth, good will to men, from heaven’s all gracious King”?

This Christmas Season may your heart be filled with warmth and blessing. May you experience peace and express good will to men. Have a Merry Christmas and happy holiday season.

Ed Komarnicki
Member of Parliament
Souris- Moose Mountain