Dear Friends,
Three leaders in the San Diego faith communities gave inspiring thoughts to these three words LOVE, HOPE, FAITH in the Sunday San Diego Union Tribune, as they looked back on 2020 and ahead to 2021. Here are some excerpts of their messages. To read the complete article go to
The San Diego Union Tribune, “OPINION” section, December 13, 2020.
Imam Taha Hassane, Islamic Center of San Diego and member of POINT Interfaith Team
“As a Muslim, believing that my faith convers all aspects of life and shapes my view on life, humanity, divinity and afterlife, the new year-symbolizes and opportunity for reflection.
The first thing is Time. When I am given time, I am given an opportunity to live longer to fulfill my purpose., to serve the Creator and show mercy to the creation. Second is self-accountability, spiritual evaluation. Finally as I plan for my future, I ask myself these questions:
What do I want to achieve in the next year regarding my relationship with God, family, and community?
How can I improve myself and become a tool of inspiration and source of goodness?
What should I do to contribute to the betterment of my community, my nation and our world?
In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, what is my role, as a faith leader, to ensure my community’s safety and well begin?
What more could I do to have my voice heard standing firmly for justice and challenging injustice.
I invite you to join me in these reflections.”
Bishop Robert McElroy, Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of San Diego
“Christ’s entry into the world is more than the revelation of a child born in innocence and hope. It is God’s consolation and comfort that in the most difficult moments of our lives, divine grace is intimately present. Religious hope is the conviction that in times of suffering and hardship God will find a way to accompany us as in these days of pandemic, economic struggle, sickness and isolation. We mirror the journey of Mary and Joseph. They had to leave behind their familiar home, come to a distant city to experience the birth of their first born child without support of family and friends. After the year we have all lived, increasing and sustaining joy and gratitude may be more challenging than ever, but amidst all the difficulty, we are reminded of the human capacity to find light, joy and miracles in our daily lives. May each of us have the courage to light our way with courage, resiliency, resolute faith and hope.”
Rabbi Yael Ridberg, Congregation Dor Hadash in San Diego
“We have been searching for miracles all year; an end to the suffering. To be able to embrace one another again and to gather without concern. This week Jews all over the world will light the eight-branch Hanukkah candelabra to remember and celebrate the unexpected miracle found in the depths of despair. The miraculous jar of oil found in the Temple desecrated by the Syrian Greeks should have only lasted for one day lasted eight days. The miracle of the first night was that of faith itself, faith that would enable the people to begin again. Hope is essential in the midst of despair. Hope is an act of defiance and an act of love. Joy is an expression of spiritual resistance and one of resilience. May each of us have the courage to find the flask of oil, however small to light our way forward together.”
