Hollywood Walk of Fame star Roma Downey has spoken of how the story of Christmas gives her hope despite many struggles.

Londonderry-born Downey made it onto Hollywood’s renowned Walk of Fame for her work as an actress and producer.

One of her most notable works is ‘The Bible’ series, which portrays the narrative of Scripture.

But life has not been plain sailing.

She said: “I can’t help but reflect upon the last twelve months and to be honest sometimes it felt as though the valleys were deeper than the mountains were tall. Perhaps some of you can relate?

Roma with her husband, television producer Mark Burnett

“For me, this year has been challenging, filled with personal heartache and loss as well as truly traumatic events in our community.

“Losing my brother last autumn broke my heart and I still feel waves of grief wash over me even as I write. Then several weeks ago we got an urgent call to evacuate our home due to rapidly approaching, out-of-control wildfires. After weeks of evacuation, uncertainty and anxiety we are finally back in our home. We are more fortunate than many families here in our hometown of Malibu as at least we have a home to return to.”

However, facing up to her pain, Downey has found inspiration and hope through her Christian faith and admits there is no greater time than Christmas to be reminded of this.

She added: “I know that bad things happen to people all the time, we get knocked down and we have to find our way back up, trusting that there is purpose in the pain – that good can and will come of it, by God’s grace and radical ability to work all things for good.

“So, today I am counting my blessings afresh and thanking God for every single one of them. Even the pain.

“For in the pain I am given another opportunity to grieve in the safest hands; the hands that uphold me, will never disappoint and from which all blessings have and will forevermore come.

“So, as I put up my Christmas tree, I am reminded of all the joy and love in my life.

“As I unpack my Christmas dishes and my old Santa collection and all the tree decorations, I remember the gift of this season. Each ornament, each tradition, holding the sweetness of something remembered and these memories are my true treasures.

“I know for certain love never dies, and isn’t love the real gift of the season after all? As we prepare our hearts and our home to celebrate this holiday season, let’s remember the greatest gift there ever was, God’s own Son coming to earth to be our Prince of Peace and our hope for heaven.”

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