The Christians in Bangladesh for years have endeared themselves to the nation and have set a shining example of brotherhood, earning their fellow countrymen and women's respect and recognition. The community has established a legacy of peaceful co-existence and commitment to the common good.

Over the years our Christian brothers and sisters made all round contributions towards the development of our society. Here in Bangladesh they have made particularly significant contributions to our education, particularly at primary and high school levels. To this day a number of schools continue to be managed and run by Christian missionaries with traditional zeal and commitment, imparting quality education to our children all over the country. These schools virtually serve as models for all the other schools.

These are difficult times, not only for Bangladesh, but also for all nations around the world. Conflicts of all dimensions, religious or otherwise, are not only hindering the overall progress of the society, but also are leading us on a path of destruction of all universally accepted human values. Amidst such an environment, our Christian brothers and sisters always upheld their belief in universal brotherhood and value systems. Today we take this opportunity of recalling the august visit of the previous Pontiff to Bangladesh years ago, signifying the ultimate brotherhood and solidarity between the Christians of our country and the community at large all over the world.

We thus believe that this day we should also take a vow to follow the examples of our Christian brethren in our efforts to bring about the much needed equilibrium and tranquility in our society. Only trust in one another, tolerance, and forbearance for each other, irrespective of one's religious calling or cultural practices, can ensure our successful march towards that goal.

We also take this opportunity to convey our best wishes for a Merry Christmas to Christians all over the world. Together let us renew our pledge to free societies anywhere and everywhere from all forms of religious persecutions and social injustices.