A Prayer for Creation this Christmas

The Marianist Magnificat, December 2025, highlights Marianists' works for justice for the poor and marginalized in Lima, Peru, especially during this Christmas season.

More than 30 years ago, Father Eduardo Arens, SM, began the incredible work of providing breakfast to many people living in shantytowns on the outskirts of Lima, Peru. These people are very poor and live in an area with harsh winters.

In the context of food insecurity in Peru, in 2025, the CLM youth of Lima continue to promote the Christmas Baskets campaign, an initiative started by Fr. Arens, SM, more than 15 years ago. The goal of this campaign is to deliver baskets filled with basic necessities to hundreds of families in Villa María del Triunfo, Pamplona Alta, and Ticlio Chico, giving them a different kind of Christmas.

It is important to note that this work is supported by young people and adults from the CLM, members of the Santa María Reina parish, as well as teachers and students from educational institutions in the Lima area.

Marianist Magnificat, December 2025

A Prayer for Creation this Christmas

Eternal God,

This Christmas night, when the earth rejoices at the birth of Your Son,

We remember that all creation shares in this joy.

The stars that guided the Magi, the animals that warmed the stable,

And the earth that cradled the manger —

All proclaim the beauty of Your handiwork.

Lord Jesus, Word made flesh,

You came not only to save humanity,

But to renew the whole world.

Teach us to cherish the rivers and forests,

To protect the air and soil,

And to live gently upon the earth,

So that future generations may see Your glory

 In the works of Your hands.

Holy Spirit, Breath of Life,

Fill our hearts with gratitude and courage

To be faithful stewards of creation.

May our care for the earth be a hymn of praise,

And our lives, a reflection of the peace You bring this Christmas.

Through Christ our Lord.

Amen.