FED:Don't take blessings for granted: Pell

AAP General News (Australia)
12-24-2011
FED:Don't take blessings for granted: Pell

EDS: Not for use before 0001 (AEDT) on Saturday, December 24



SYDNEY, Dec 24 AAP - The rain being experienced in the run-up to Christmas is a small
price to pay after 10 years of drought, Cardinal George Pell says.

The Catholic Archbishop of Sydney has used his Christmas message to remind people that
they often take for granted their blessings of prosperity, peace and a good climate.

Cardinal Pell said Christmas was always a consolation to those who were down and out
because the birth of Jesus showed that the poor and suffering would have pride of place
in heaven.

He said Christmas was a time to remind us that the family is central to every civilisation,
necessary for the future and for human survival.

Cardinal Pell's message also gives a nod to humanity's place in the universe, acknowledging
the Big Bang 14 billion years ago and questioning why mankind is "home alone ... amongst
billions of constellations".

AAP af/mp/goc/

KEYWORD: XMAS PELL (EMBARGOED)

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