Bishop of Albany and Apostolic Administrator for the Diocese of Buffalo Edward Scharfenberger delivered his Christmas message Monday.

"Let your eyes be refreshed. Let your eyes look at life in a new way," said Edward Scharfenberger, Bishop of Albany. "The message of Christmas isn't just about a day, isn't just about Christ nativity. It's about a way of life. A way of looking at life. Looking at life through the eyes of a God that loves us and wants to be with us." 

Bishop Scharfenberger was appointed to lead the Buffalo Diocese earlier this month, after now Bishop Emeritus Richard Malone resigned, and was granted early retirement from Pope Francis.

This is the first holiday season the Diocese of Buffalo is without its leader during one of the holiest weeks of the year. 

"Everyone has a place in Christmas. I hope you find your place. And I hope you find that place in the heart of the child of Bethlehem. God Bless you and Merry Christmas," said Scharfenberger.

Diocese of Buffalo leaders say Father Charles Slisz will celebrate midnight mass at St. Joseph Cathedral in the city, where he serves as Rector.