Pope signs deal for Christmas-music recording

A Post from the Catholic News Agency website that stood out:

Pope Benedict has signed a record deal for an album of religious music and prayers for Christmas to be released under the Geffen label, which also distributes music for Lady GaGa and U2.

Benedict XVI, 82, and Vatican priests will record music and prayers for new label Geffen UK, expected to be a hit with millions of Catholics worldwide, according to the UK Daily Mirror.

Geffen is part of the US entertainment giant Universal Music Group. Other stars in the group's stables include Lady GaGa, Marilyn Manson, Eminem, U2 and Black Eyed Peas.

"Everyone thought it was a wind up when we got a call from the Vatican," a source at the London based label was quoted as saying. "But it was the Pope's representative inviting us to Rome."

"Two senior managers flew out. The Pope wasn't there in person, sadly. But we didn't hesitate to offer His Holiness a deal."

(CWN)

A Christmas Message to Children From Cardinal Cormac Murphy O'Connor

In his last Christmas as Archbishop of Westminster, the Cardinal has written to children with a special Christmas message. This is what he writes:

‘My dear children,
You are very precious to Jesus and he loves you very much, and so does his Church.

Christmas is a time when we draw close to Jesus in the manger at Bethlehem and celebrate his birth. During the school holidays, spend some time with him, talk with him, share your joys and the things that worry you. He will be so happy to see you and to listen. Don't be afraid, and in the silence, listen to what he is saying to you.

But remember, don't keep the wonderful gift of knowing him to yourself! Be courageous, through your kind words and actions, and in telling your friends of his presence in your life. On the Yfaith website (www.yfaith.co.uk) you'll be able to find ideas about how to do this.

Saint Paul wrote in a letter to the Philippians (2: 15), "shine like stars in the universe". This Christmas, be a shining star, just like the one that led the kings to the stable all those years ago. Let the light of Jesus shine through you. It's not hard. Just say “yes” as Mary did, and Jesus will do the rest.

In a special way children, you will be in my thoughts and prayers as I celebrate Mass this Christmas. Let's pray for one another. Do remember me in prayers when you go to Mass in your own parish.

God bless you and thank you for all that you are.’

Father Cormac
His Eminence, Cardinal Cormac Murphy-O'Connor, Archbishop of Westminster