The festive season becomes a real joy only when you put Christ into Christmas.
This is the Christmas message from the Catholic Bishops Conference (CBC) to the country.
CBC general secretary Fr. Victor Roche said Christmas is a time of joy with colourful decorations put up in stores, houses, offices and churches.
He said Christmas parties and sales are held everywhere with presents being given out.
"But many times, this is only an artificial joy. This is only artificial happiness. Christmas becomes a real joy or inner only when you put Christ into Christmas.
"Christmas becomes a real joy when there is reconciliation. Christmas is a celebration of the family.
"Christ was born into a family in order to show the importance of family," said Roche.
He encouraged people to keep order and peace during Christmas and to refrain from drinking alcohol and causing problems.
"Let communities, villages and towns celebrate Christmas peacefully.
"May you have the joy and peace of Christmas. Happy Christmas and a blessing filled new year," said Roche.