THE deteriorating world economic outlook was a consistent theme of world religious leaders in their Christmas messages. Anglican leader Rowan Williams stressed that each person's ability to make a difference to those around them was particularly important during the tough economic times.
Dr Williams, the Archbishop of Canterbury, counselled against individuals waiting for a strong leader to take command of the overall economic situation.
"The gospel tells us something hard to hear -- there's not going to be a single charismatic leader or a dedicated political campaign or a war to end all wars that will bring the golden age," he said.
Dr Williams, who heads the 77million-strong worldwide Anglican Communion, said Christians could emulate Jesus through "small and local gestures, the unique difference made in some particular corner of the world".
The archbishop had previously weighed into the debate about world economic conditions by criticising the economic stimulus package brought down by British Prime Minister Gordon Brown -- a similar package to that introduced by the Australian Government -- which he said was like an "addict returning to the drug".
Pope Benedict XVI used his Christmas address from Rome to signal a greater involvement by the Catholic Church in the Middle East, calling for an end to "hatred and violence" in the region and foreshadowing a visit there next May.
"Let us think of the place named Bethlehem, of the land in which Jesus lived and which he loved so deeply," said the Pope in his address to the world's 650million Catholics.
"And let us pray that peace will be established there, that hatred and violence will cease."
While the Vatican has not made any official announcement about the timing of a papal visit, the Latin patriarch of Jerusalem, Fouad Twal, said the Pope would travel to Jordan, Israel and the West Bank in mid-May, and the visit would include trips to Nazareth and Bethlehem.
It would be the pontiff's first visit to the region since his election in 2005. His predecessor, John Paul II, visited in 2000.
On the domestic front, Sydney Catholic Archbishop George Pell has used his Christmas sermon to criticise financial markets for the tough times, while calling on churchgoers to renew their faith.
Cardinal Pell led a mass at St Mary's Cathedral in which he reiterated his Christmas message, urging the 3500-strong congregation to renew their faith in God, not capitalism.
About 8500 people attended the three Christmas Eve services, a big jump on last year, cathedral warden Tim Ryan said.
The theme of reconnecting with spirituality in the face of economic catastrophe was taken up by Anglican and Uniting Church leaders in Australia.
Anglican Primate Phillip Aspinall said there was darkness all around in the world.
"The global economic crisis has unleashed fear and anxiety on many families, individuals and retirees," he said.
"The darkness is real. And yet at Christmas-time above all others, we dare to announce with joy and jubilation that the light shines in the darkness and has not overcome it."
Queen Elizabeth II used her televised Christmas message to reflect on the sombre backdrop of economic hardship brought on by the worldwide credit crunch.
"Christmas is a time for celebration, but this year it is a more sombre occasion for many," the Queen said. "Some of those things which could once have been taken for granted suddenly seem less certain, and naturally give rise to feelings of insecurity.
"People are touched by events which have their roots far across the world. Whether it is the global economy or violence in a distant land, the effects can be keenly felt at home."
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(Source: TA)