Christmas message from Archbishop of York

This was taken to the newspaper The Press, today:

Christmas message to readers from Archbishop of York, Dr. John Sentamu:

The safe return of Claudia Lawrence to her family and the welfare of serving members of the armed forces should be in our prayers, according to the Archbishop of York, Dr. John Sentamu, in his Christmas message to readers of The Press.

I want to wish you and your families a wonderful Christmas and a happy New Year.

"It has been four incredible years since I arrived in York and I am always touched by the generosity and hospitality of people in this city. People here have made me and my family very welcome and for that I will always be grateful.

Christmas is a time for resting and finding time for those we love. Celebrating with our families and friends and thanking God for what He has given us.

But let us also spare a thought for those who are alone and for families who are apart.

Let us keep Claudia Lawrence and her family in our minds at this difficult time. Let us continue to pray for her safe return, and for that of Madeleine McCann.

We cannot even begin to imagine the pain and sufferring that these two families are experiencing. My heart goes out to them.

Let us remember our brave servicemen and women who are fighting overseas to protect the families of others, while theirs remain here in the UK.

Let us think of others as well as ourselves this Yuletide.

I hope you all have a blessed and peaceful Christmas".

A Christmas and New Year message from Peter, Claudia's father