An Cosantóir

8 | "The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; upon those who dwelt in the land of gloom a light has shone." I t is truly an honour and a joy to be offered this opportunity to extend greetings to the women and men of Óglaigh na hÉireann and to your families and loved ones, as we prepare to celebrate Christmas 2025. The Christmas story is one of vulnerability and strength intertwined. The King of Kings entered our world not in a palace, but in a humble manger. He came not with an army, but with the gentle, all-powerful strength of love. In the person of Jesus, God sanctified our human condition—body, mind, and spirit. This truth speaks directly to us who serve in the Defence Forces. Our vocation demands immense physical endurance, mental fortitude, and spiritual resilience. We are entrusted with great responsibility, and we rightly focus on the readiness of our equipment and the sharpness of our skills. Yet, this Christmas, I wish to reflect on the most essential piece of equipment we have: our own humanity. The Peace of Christ for Your Wellbeing The angels announced to the shepherds, "Do not be afraid; for behold, I proclaim to you good news of great joy" (Luke 2:10). They spoke into a night that was likely filled with the same anxieties and worries that can burden any heart, especially one that carries the weight of service. Your mental and emotional wellbeing is of paramount importance. The peace that Christ brings is not the absence of struggle, but a profound sense of His abiding presence within it. Do not carry your burdens alone. In the camaraderie of your unit reach out to one another. Speak with a trusted comrade, the PSS, or your chaplain. Seeking help is a sign of wisdom and strength, a recognition that we are made for community and are stronger together. Nourishing the Spirit for the Journey Ahead Finally, in the silence of that Holy Night, we find the ultimate source of our strength: God Himself, who came to dwell among us. In the business of our duties and our everyday lives finding time for a quiet prayer can connect us to the source of all life and hope. This Christmas, as you gaze upon the crib, see the Infant Jesus as a reminder that God holds your entire being—your body, your mind, and your spirit —in His loving hands. Cherish the gift of your health. Protect your wellbeing. Nourish your spirit. To your families, who serve with you through their love and sacrifice, my prayer is that your homes be filled with the joy. I pray that the light that dawned in Bethlehem shines brightly in your hearts, guiding you, strengthening you, and granting you His perfect peace. With every blessing for a holy and joyful Christmas. HEAD CHAPLAIN FR PASCHAL FR PASCHAL HANRAHAN HANRAHAN An Cosantóir November / December 2025 www.military.ie/magazine CHRISTMAS MESSAGE Beannachtai n Nollag agus Siochán san AthBhliain! An tAthair Paschal ÓhAnnracháin

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