Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
As we approach the sacred season of Advent, we are called once again to journey in hope, preparing our hearts for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. This holy time invites us to reflect, renew, and rejoice as we await the celebration of His birth and anticipate His return in glory.
A Call to Hope in Challenging Times
The universal Church stands at a crossroads as we navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing world. The Synod on Synodality has invited us to listen deeply to one another, to journey together, and to embrace the Spirit’s call for renewal. In our society, we are faced with challenges of economic inequality, environmental degradation, and the erosion of human dignity. Yet, Advent reminds us that in the darkest of times, Christ's light shines the brightest.
Let us draw inspiration from the Blessed Virgin Mary, who said her courageous “yes” in uncertain times. She trusted in God’s providence, reminding us to place our faith in the One who makes all things new.
A Time for Prayer and Reflection
Advent is an opportune time to deepen our relationship with Christ through prayer and the sacraments. I encourage each family, Small Christian Community, and parish to reflect on the Word of God together. Let the Scriptures, particularly the readings of Advent, be a source of hope and guidance in these turbulent times.
In our Archdiocese, let us also keep in mind those most in need—the poor, the lonely, the elderly, and the marginalized. I urge you to make this Advent a time of concrete acts of charity and solidarity, living out our faith in service to others.
The Joy of Synodality
As we continue to embrace the fruits of the Synod, I invite you to build communities of welcome and inclusion, echoing the spirit of Bethlehem, where all are invited to encounter the Christ Child. The Synod calls us to be a Church that walks with ALL people, attentive to their joys and struggles. Let us renew our commitment to dialogue, justice, and peace, bringing the love of Christ to every corner of our Archdiocese.
Preparing Our Hearts
As we light the candles of the Advent wreath, let each flame ignite within us a spirit of hope, peace, joy, and love. Let us prepare our hearts, not only for the celebration of Christmas but also for the mission to be Christ’s hands and feet in the world.
Dear friends, may this Advent be a time of grace and transformation for you and your families. I entrust each of you to the loving care of Mary, our Mother, and invoke God’s blessings upon you. May the Emmanuel—God with us—fill your hearts with His light, leading you ever closer to the fullness of His love.
✠ Oswald Cardinal Gracias
Archbishop of Bombay