Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, Archbishop of Newark, delivered a message highlighting the significance of Christmas and its implications for believers. In his address, Cardinal Tobin emphasized the proximity of God to humanity through the incarnation of Jesus Christ. "Through the incarnation of Jesus, the Word made flesh, the immense, all-powerful, all-knowing God who created the universe has become Emmanuel (God-with-us)," he stated.

Cardinal Tobin noted that Jesus' humble birth challenges societal norms that associate divinity with power and wealth. He remarked on God's unexpected ways: "High is low. Rich is poor. Power is service." This paradox extends to how believers should live their lives by caring for the vulnerable and transforming unjust structures.

The Cardinal also reflected on the demands this closeness places on individuals: "Do we live the Christmas paradox in our daily lives? What are we doing to care for the poor and homeless?" He urged reflection on welcoming strangers and protecting society's most vulnerable members.

In addition to Cardinal Tobin's message, an excerpt from Pope Francis' Encyclical Letter Dilexit Nos was shared. The Pope highlighted themes from social encyclicals like Laudato Si’ and Fratelli Tutti about love's role in fostering fraternity and dignity among people. "The love of Christ has no place in this perverse mechanism," Pope Francis warned against materialism while advocating for Christ’s love as a transformative force.

The hymn 'O Come, O Come Emmanuel,' originally written in Latin as 'Veni, Veni, Emmanuel,' was also featured. It calls for rejoicing in anticipation of Christ's coming.

Cardinal Tobin concluded with a prayer asking for divine guidance during Advent: "Come, Emmanuel... fill our hearts with gratitude for your coming two thousand years ago."