Spiritual Reflection – Pilgrims of Hope

Pope Francis has provided many thoughts to ponder throughout this jubilee year. From this selection, take time with each one and reflect on the implication for you personally and within your professional role.

“Help each other discover this encounter with Christ who gives us life, and let’s set out on a journey as pilgrims of hope to celebrate that life. . . . Day by day, let us fill our lives with the gift of hope that God gives us, and through us, let us allow it to reach everyone who is looking for it.” (Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network, 12.12.2024)

How do you experience the gift of hope and how might you give expression to it with those you encounter?

No matter what the world throws at us, Christians should have the courage to press forward in hope. At the end of his video message, Pope Francis closed with a gentle reminder: “Don’t forget—hope never disappoints” (see Rom. 5:5). The God who made heaven and earth is a God who keeps his promises—this is the clear message of Scripture. (Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network, 12.12.2024)

How have you experienced God’s promises in your life?

Pilgrims of Hope, Builders of Peace

“Our life finds fulfilment when we discover who we are, what our gifts are, where we can make them bear fruit, and what path we can follow in order to become signs and instruments of love, generous acceptance, beauty, and peace, wherever we find ourselves.” (Pope Francis, 61st World Day of Prayer for Vocations)

What have you discovered about who you are and how you live your life abundantly?

Turning to the heart of his message, Pope Francis recalled that Christian pilgrimage means keeping our eyes, minds, and hearts fixed on our goal—which is Christ—and to set out every day anew.

“Our pilgrimage on this earth is far from a pointless journey or aimless wandering. On the contrary, each day, by responding to God’s call, we try to take every step needed to advance towards a new world where people can live in peace, justice, and love.” Christ’s Resurrection, noted Pope Francis, is the force that drives our Christian hope and allows us to face the challenges our world presents us. (Pope Francis, 61st World Day of Prayer for Vocations)

What invitation is God offering you to be a bearer of Christ’s love in our world today?