“Today, Albertans following the Apostolic, Orthodox and Eastern Christian faiths celebrate Orthodox Christmas Day and I would like to wish them all a blessed day. May the miracle of Jesus’ birth renew your faith and fill your hearts with love, hope and joy.

“As you spend time with family and friends, may you be filled with a spirit of kindness, gratitude and generosity. May the faith and traditions you celebrate provide strength and comfort for you.

“My very warmest wishes to everyone who is celebrating today.”