Christian leaders in Kerry have issued their Christmas Day messages.
The Roman Catholic bishop of the Diocese of Kerry, Ray Browne reminded people that love, faith and hope lie at the heart of the season.
He encouraged those who are experiencing difficulty to take comfort in the simplicity of the first Christmas, when Mary and Joseph showed that fulfilment does not depend on everything being ideal.
Bishop Browne asked for prayers for the newly elected Pope Leo XIV and remembered Pope Francis with gratitude:
The Church of Ireland bishop of the Dioceses of Tuam, Limerick & Killaloe, which includes Kerry, Bishop Michael Burrows has also released his Christmas Day message.
He spoke of the story of Simeon, who met baby Jesus when Mary and Joseph presented him at the temple.
Holding Jesus, Simeon prophesised the baby was a "light to lighten the Gentiles" but also foretold that Jesus' life would involve both glory and suffering.
Bishop Burrows spoke of the bitter-sweetness of life:
