Reach Out in Friendship and Neighbourly Love This Christmas – Message from the Chair of Mid Ulster District Council

Chair of Mid Ulster District Council, Councillor Frances Burton, has issued a Christmas message wishing everyone across the district a blessed, safe, and peaceful festive season.

Her message reflects on the true meaning of Christmas, highlighting themes of faith, compassion, and community at a time when connection and kindness matter most.

Reflecting on the True Meaning of Christmas

Councillor Burton encouraged residents to pause amid the celebrations and remember the heart of the Christmas story.

She said Christmas is a time to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, described as the Light of the World, who brought hope, peace, and salvation.

She reminded people that the humble birth of Christ in a stable carries a powerful message.

A Message of Love, Humility and Grace

Councillor Burton spoke about how Christmas teaches that greatness is often found in simplicity.

She said the message of Christmas is one of love, humility, and grace, and that God’s love reaches everyone, regardless of background or circumstance.

Caring for One Another During Challenging Times

Acknowledging the difficulties many people face, Councillor Burton said Christmas calls on communities to show care and compassion.

She encouraged people to:

• Extend kindness to those in need
• Offer forgiveness and understanding
• Carry hope and light into dark places
• Be instruments of peace within their communities

She noted that these values are especially important during uncertain and challenging times.

Supporting Those Who Are Grieving

Councillor Burton also recognised that Christmas can be a particularly hard period for those grieving the loss of a loved one.

She said the sense of togetherness at Christmas can make absence feel even more painful.

Her message offered comfort to those carrying sorrow, encouraging them to lean on:

• Cherished memories
• The support of family and friends
• The hope that the Christmas season brings

Thanks to Those Who Serve the Community

As Chair of Mid Ulster District Council, Councillor Burton expressed her gratitude to those who support local communities throughout the year.

She paid tribute to:

• Volunteers
• Carers
• Faith leaders
• Community workers

She encouraged everyone to reach out in friendship and neighbourly love this Christmas.

A Christmas Blessing for Mid Ulster

Councillor Burton concluded by wishing households across the district peace and joy during the festive season.

She said she hopes homes will be filled with peace, hearts with joy, and lives with the love that Christ brings.

Her message ended with a reminder of what she described as the greatest gift ever given, quoting John 3:16.

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

Message from

Councillor Frances Burton
Chair, Mid Ulster District Council