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I enjoy reading bumper stickers when I'm stuck in traffic, often scratching my head at the absurdity or impracticality of some messages.

For example, when I see “Ban Bad Drivers, Not Books” on a car’s bumper, I start to ponder questions similar to those in “Le Petit Prince.” What exactly makes a driver a bad driver? How many offenses qualify someone for this label? What type of authority gets to make that judgment? When do bad drivers get "unbanned?" Additionally, what kinds of books are being banned lately? Are there individuals out there preventing the masses from reading texts that could change our perspectives on life?

Fortunately, when the traffic light turns green, I can pause my little prince musings and continue my drive.

Another bumper sticker I come across this time of year is “Keep Christ in Christmas,” which presents a real challenge for me.

Christmas has become one of the most secularized and commercialized holidays in the world. People from different religions, as well as those with no particular faith, tend to celebrate it. The festive atmosphere created by Christmas trees, lights, decorations, and family and corporate gatherings certainly enhances the celebratory mood. However, as Christians and members of the Armenian Apostolic Church, we should make an effort to carve out a spiritual space in our busy lives to embrace the mystery of the Nativity.

Daily prayers, scripture readings, and personal reflections are excellent ways to start. Attending church services during the Sundays of Advent and immersing ourselves in the Sacrament of the Eucharist and the Word of God provide a solid foundation for our Advent journey. Personally, I find preaching on the Gospel readings during this season both instructive and inspiring.

This year, we are planning a mini-retreat on Wednesday, December 17, 2025. We will gather in the sanctuary of St. Sarkis to reflect on the Nativity narratives and delve into the mystery of Christ’s incarnation. We will hear and sing some of the hymns associated with the Armenian church's nativity and, through personal reflections, strive to experience Jesus as Emmanuel, God with us, during this sacred season, which will culminate in the celebration of the Birth of the Godson on January 6.

“Keep Christ in Christmas” is not just an empty slogan or a simple bumper sticker; it represents a genuine effort within our community, and I hope you will join us.