Jesus Christ was a refugee who grew up to become a dissident. Of course He is much more than that – He is God Incarnate, Emmanuel – but as we approach the Nativity and see images of a baby lying in a manger, let us not forget the rest of the story.
And as we contemplate this scene, let us remember the refugees and dissidents of the world today.
Over the course of this year, freedom, human rights and human dignity have continued to be threatened or denied in many parts of the world. Across Africa, Asia, the Middle East and Latin America, freedom of expression, assembly, association and religion are facing increasing challenges.














