MINISTER'S MESSAGE FOR DECEMBER 2025

December is important for its many holidays, such as Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa, as well as major awareness events like World AIDS Day, Human Rights Day, and the start of the 16 Days of Awareness Against Domestic Violence. It also marks the astronomical winter solstice in the Northern Hemisphere and features astronomical events like the Geminid meteor shower. 

Major Observances and Holidays

December is a diverse month, with major holidays celebrated globally:

Hanukkah A Jewish festival of lights that lasts for eight days and nights, commemorating the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem.

Winter Solstice / Yule Occurring around December 21st in the Northern Hemisphere, this is the shortest day of the year and marks the astronomical start of winter, a time of renewal and the "return of light".

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Widely celebrated on December 24th and 25th, these Christian holidays commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ and are observed by many people, both religious and non-religious, with traditions like gift-giving and family gatherings.

Boxing Day A public holiday in the UK, Canada, Australia, and other countries, traditionally a day off for servants and now often a time for commercial sales and sports events.

Kwanzaa A week-long celebration from December 26th to January 1st that honors African American heritage and culture, emphasizing seven core principles like unity and self-determination.

New Year's Eve The final day of the year, celebrated globally with gatherings, reflection on the past year, and welcoming the new year with anticipation and fireworks.

International Awareness Days

December also features a number of important international and awareness days, many sponsored by the United Nations, that promote social causes and human rights:

World AIDS Day (December 1st): Raises awareness and commemorates those who have died from AIDS-related illnesses.

International Day for the Abolition of Slavery (December 2nd): Focuses on eliminating contemporary forms of slavery, such as human trafficking and forced labor.

International Day of Persons with Disabilities (December 3rd): Promotes inclusion, accessibility, and equal rights for people with disabilities.

Human Rights Day (December 10th): Commemorates the UN General Assembly's adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948.

International Migrants Day (December 18th): Recognizes the contributions of migrants and advocates for the protection of their rights.

International Human Solidarity Day (December 20th): Highlights the importance of unity in addressing global challenges and fighting poverty.

Personal and Practical Significance

Beyond specific holidays, December is important for personal and practical reasons:

Reflection and Goal Setting As the year ends, it is a natural time to reflect on accomplishments and challenges, and to set intentions and make plans for the new year.

Charity and Giving The holiday spirit often encourages increased acts of kindness, volunteering, and donations to those less fortunate, strengthening community bonds.

Family and Togetherness Many of the month's celebrations revolve around spending quality time with loved ones, fostering a sense of community and warmth during the colder months. 

Financial Review December is a key time for individuals and businesses to review finances, close the books on the current year, and budget for the upcoming year.

May this truly be a time of both reflection, family and celebration before moving on into the new year.

As always Bruce is available via cell phone or email.

Rev. Dr. Bruce Sweet

My contact information:

705-209-3899

Brucesweet4@gmail.com