A Moment with the Mayor: Christmas 2020

As we prepare for a Christmas celebration like no other, I want to take you back over 2,000 years by reflecting on the birth of Jesus.

History tells an incredible narrative of an epic journey of an extraordinary couple called to meet the day’s requirements, which was a census. This required quite a sacrifice on the young couple’s part as she was expecting a child imminently. They arrived at their destination to find no accommodation available in a home or hotel. A barn/or hillside cave was offered to them. When the baby was born, angels appeared to the shepherds in the countryside. They all went to the stable and paid homage to this child that the angels proclaimed. This child came to be a light to the nations and bring peace on earth. The Birth of Christ’s story is celebrated and remembered year after year by families and friends just like yours and mine.

We have gathered in the past from far and wide to celebrate at Christmas. Our gatherings have had guests overflowing into all rooms of the house and out into the yard some years. People, food and fun, are all brought together to celebrate.

As we approach Christmas 2020, we have no idea how the “celebration” will look. My heart and thoughts will be with those who cannot join us this year. We will need to figure out what we can do. For many, it will have to be on some online platform. I think we will be gathering virtually with my wife’s family on a zoom call. My mom doesn’t “do” technology, so we will likely call and have a conversation. I encourage you to reach out to family and friends, especially those who are alone.

Today the need has never been greater with the challenging times we are in, especially for those who are no longer employed and experiencing economic hardship. If you can assist others directly or make a donation to an organization that assists those in need, I encourage you to do so. Your generosity will go a long way to help others as we finish 2020 and move into 2021.

I want to take this opportunity to wish you a Merry Christmas from my family to yours and your loved ones wherever they may be this Christmas. Let us remember to take time to laugh, to live and to love those who are near and far.

Mayor Gerald S. Aalbers
City of Lloydminster