As we bid farewell to another year, I would like to thank you all for your loving and dedicated service to the poor through SSVP this year. Every year has its challenges and the plight of the poor never seems to get better – in fact there seem to be more and more people needing our help. Thank you for continuing to make sacrifices, to show empathy and to share God’s love with the poorest of the poor.

The child in the manger was helpless and dependent on those around him to be fed, clothed and sustained. Our mighty God took on human form, and was helpless so that humankind would offer care. The poverty of the Christ child and his parents, their loneliness and rejection at Bethlehem, their need for the basics in life – food, clothing and shelter – were as real as the needs we encounter every day among the poor.
Emmanuel, God with us, has embraced our poverty out of love for us, in order to give us his riches and his joy. He has become as poor as the poorest of us, that no one may be held back from him, no matter what their circumstances. What love, what sacrifice!

At this Christmastime, when we are bombarded by materialism and the encouragement to spend and accumulate, we need to be aware of all those around us in need. Let us identify with them in their poverty, just as Christ did at Bethlehem.

Thank you for all you have done to show God’s love during this past year – thank you for continuing to share God’s love with the poorest of the poor.

May you be given the strength, courage and joy to keep serving God in the poor in 2026.

My Christmas wish for you is that your hearts, homes and families be filled with all the peace, joy and love of this festive season. For those travelling, I wish you a safe journey. Best wishes for 2026.

Yours in Christ
Vincent Williams
National President