The word holidays is creeping into more and more Christmas greetings - some children's concerts are even banning carols in favour of seasonal singalong favourites from popular musicals. Coca-Cola, it seems, isn't the only corporation greeting people with 'Happy Holidays' instead of 'Happy Christmas'.

Jenny Morton of Ballyvaughan, Co Clare, in her letter to The Irish Times last Friday said she would have preferred "the option of purchas­ing non-religious Christmas stamps for my non-religious Christmas cards from An Post, but alas it was not possible. Maybe some day?"

The whole point of Christmas is that it is a christian celebration of the birth of Jesus, although nowadays it is largely secularised and dominated by gifts, Santa Claus and decorated trees. However, the ideals of the Christmas message are not exclusive to the christian community. Family and friendship, coming together and sharing are virtues that our society in these deep days of recession needs more than ever.

The spirit of the Christmas message is quite wonderful. Believe it, or don't, it is your choice. Whether you simply enjoy a mid-winter break or you participate in the religious festival we hope you find joy. A very Happy Christmas to all our readers, in the spirit of peace, family and community that it began in - and hopefully will continue for a long time.