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2 DECEMBER 2025 - JANUARY 2026 | DENVER CATHOLIC ARCH B I S H O P ' S CO LU M N E very December, as our homes and neigh- borhoods begin to sparkle with lights, our hearts are drawn again to this ancient prophecy from Isaiah. The glow that fills our streets and sanctuaries is more than seasonal cheer; it reflects a far greater truth. That great, true light has indeed shone among us: the light of Jesus Christ, the Word made flesh. The Incarnation, God taking on our humanity, is the most magnificent mystery of all history, after the mystery of the Holy Trinity itself. Through Mary's humble "yes," the eternal Son of God entered our world, not as a distant ruler but as a child. The angel's message to Mary reveals the wonder of that moment: "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. Behold, The Light That Shines in the Darkness BY ARCHBISHOP SAMUEL J. AQUILA Follow Archbishop Aquila on social media: | The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; upon those who lived in a land of gloom a light has shone." ISAIAH 9:2 you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name him Jesus. He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High ... and of his kingdom there will be no end" (Luke 1:30–33). In that instant, Heaven and earth met. The infinite became an infant. The light Isaiah fore- told broke into human history, not as a blaze of fire or thunder from above, but as the gentle radiance of a newborn's face. The light of a star brought the Magi to worship Jesus. And Jesus, the Light of the World, continues to shine in our hearts, in our families, in our Church, in the world and even in the joyful traditions that accompany this sacred season. Our Christmas decorations, lights and cel- ebrations can be true acts of faith when they are done with hearts turned toward Christ. The lights that shimmer on trees and homes recall the light that pierces all darkness. The songs we sing echo the angels' joy. The beauty of our churches adorned for the Nativity, the warm glow of candles and the joy of family gatherings