The Time Has Come
Archbishop Dermot Farrell,
Advent Pastoral Letter, 2022
I am struck by the phrase from the Letter to the Romans offered to us in the First Sunday of Advent liturgy: ‘You know “the time” has come: you must wake up now; our salvation is even nearer than when we were converted.’ (Romans 13:11). Jesus in the Gospel, reflecting on the second coming of the Son of Man, asks us all to stand ready (see Matthew 24:44).
In every generation we are asked to be ready, recognising the salvation offered in Christ Jesus, on fire with his Spirit, proclaiming the Gospel in every season, finding new ways to witness to the presence and power of Christ in our own lives and to the people of our time.
Over the past year and more, our parishes have been asked for their thoughts on the future direction of the Church in the Archdiocese. We have much to do: supporting people to deepen their faith and relationship with God; creating the structures that support vibrant communities of faith; advocating for those who are on the margins (see Statement of Mission, February 2022).