As Christians throughout the world prepared to celebrate the Nativity of our Lord, Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira and Great Britain offered a profound and pastoral Christmas Message for 2025.
Drawing inspiration from the rich theological heritage of the Church and the luminous words of Saint Gregory of Nazianzus, the Archbishop reflected on the mystery of the Incarnation as a turning point in human history—where sin was overcome by grace and humanity was invited anew into communion with God. Rooted in faith, hope, and spiritual renewal, this message called the faithful to rediscover the true meaning of Christmas beyond outward celebration and to embrace the joy, light, and transformative love that flowed from the birth of Christ in Bethlehem.
Read below the Christmas Message of Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira and Great Britain
This is our festival, this is the feast we celebrate today, in which God comes to live with human begins, that we may journey toward God, or return – for to speak thus is more exact – that laying aside the old human being we may be clothed with the new, and that as in Adam we have died so we may live in Christ, born with Christ and crucified with him, buried with him and rising with him. . . For where sin abounded, grace superabounded.”
The above words, beloved people of God, are taken from the festal oration On the Nativity of Christ of Saint Gregory of Nazianzus, the great teacher and preacher of the Church. His words remind that while sin abounded upon the face of the earth, the grace of God superabounded and the time of forgiveness had come. With the birth of the Saviour, a new dawn appeared. We are instructed to be like John when he was in the womb and to leap for joy, “for unto us a child is born unto us a son is given”, as the Prophet Isaiah writes.
The great Saint of the Church reminds us that wreaths upon the doors are not necessary, just as we should not worry about pleasing the senses with the food, drink and song for the day. Rather, allow the simple joy, grace and light that come from the cave in Bethlehem to fill your soul, heart and mind. Let the sacred melodies of the season lift up your heart, so you may join in singing and proclaiming to the world that “Christ is born!”.
As we celebrate the “Dodekaimeron” – the twelve days of Christmas – let us not forget the true meaning and essence of the season. As Saint Gregory instructs us, saying: “Run after the star, and bring gifts with the magi, gold and frankincense and myrrh, as to a king and God . . .with the shepherds give glory, with the angels sing hymns, with the archangels dance. Let there be a common celebration of the heavenly and earthly powers.”
Rejoice and celebrate for the Sun of Righteousness brings a message of hope to each and everyone.
May the great Feasts of Christmas, the New Year and the Theophany be filled with all the love Christ brings to all.
With paternal blessings and wishes,
+ NIKITAS
Archbishop of Thyateira and Great Britain
