Christmas is a time for celebration; for reflection; for the giving of gifts; for family gatherings.

Its core message of peace on earth and goodwill to all should not be marred by excess. Nor should it be trivialised by crass commercialism.

The Holy Family started in great humility, with the birth of Jesus in a stable in Bethlehem, where wise men following a star came to pay homage and offer gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.

Jesus, Mary and Joseph, who settled in Nazareth, are an inspiration for us all ­– especially in times when family values can be scoffed at by a largely secular world.

I hope and pray that 2012 will see an improvement in the way we treat each other and that our world will become a safer place for children.