Christmas is a family celebration.

A tradition that is renewed every year.

It is within the family that we are able to find the affections that give us strength, the solidarity we need in the hours of difficulty, and the joys that aid us in our daily lives.

In the family we learn respect for each other, we learn the signals that bring us together and teach us that no man can live on his own and that, if we join hands, we can always go further.

This year we are living a Christmas with the worries brought about by the crisis. I know it is difficult, in this current situation, not to think of tomorrow’s redoubled concerns. But I also know that the Portuguese are determined to fight for a better future.

We are going to need each other more than ever and, for this reason, it is necessary that the Christmas spirit of concord persists beyond these days of sharing and of good will.

It is our hope that these difficulties do not have the power to lead us away from what is essential.

We wish you all a Happy Christmas.

And the best possible New Year