Pastoral Letters
On this Feast of the Triumph of the Cross, I want to write to you about the importance of racial justice both within the life of the church and in society at large. As there are increasing numbers of people coming into this country from abroad, whether it be to work in such areas as the National Health Service or to seek asylum, it is important that they feel welcomed and respected. Together we are brothers and sisters called to enrich the lives of one another by sharing our different cultures. Differences in culture can keep people apart and can be the cause of prejudice that can lead to violence. For us, as a Christian people, we cannot accept division between nationalities because when we celebrate the Eucharist we are brought into communion with God and with all people. The Eucharist proclaims that we are a catholic people – a people who have a sense of solidarity with all human beings.
On Wednesday we begin the season of Lent, a time for renewal and taking stock of where we are in our relationship with God and with one another. Lent is a serious time but also a favourable one. As the prophet Joel reminds us, it is a time to return to God with all our heart – the symbolic place of the inner person. The call to change is radical not superficial.
On this first Sunday of the New Year, the Feast of the Epiphany, I invite you to kneel with the wise men before Jesus and his Mother. Who is this child? What is this child for our world? Do we believe that in him we see the presence and wisdom of God? Do we recognise in Jesus a way of life for all people that enables us to be better people and show more care for our world?
Showing 21 - 23 of 23 Pastoral Letters
