Andrea Dsouza, youth member of Development and Peace
Even as we grieve, we, the young people of the world, are calling for systems to change. We are learning to centre the voices of those most affected by climate change….
Jeremy Laurie, animator for British Columbia and the Yukon
Today’s Gospel reading can serve as a reminder that even Jesus himself, whose transfiguration left Peter, James and John stunned, chose a long-term approach to his mission.
Boris Polanski, member, Development and Peace National Council
Ash Wednesday marks the start of the Lenten season, the 47-day period leading up to the commemoration of Christ’s crucifixion the celebration of His resurrection.
The Most Rev. Guy Desrochers, C.Ss.R., Bishop of Pembroke
Ahead of the Christmas night mass, a bishop shares his reflections on the mystery and wonder of the “Child God who stoops down to become a toddler in front of us.”
Gertrude Rompré, National member from Saskatchewan
Reflecting on Advent, a Development and Peace member wonders where we will discover the face of God and how we will we open the door to the knocking of angels.
Hélène Tremblay-Boyko, Development and Peace member from Saskatchewan
Five years after she attended the landmark United Nations Climate Change Conference in Paris, a Development and Peace member overcomes disappointment with optimism.
Throughout Advent we are called to the same spirit of anticipatory delight expressed by John the Baptist in the weeks leading up to Jesus’ arrival. What often makes this challenging is the ever-expanding season of sales – the pressure to make the Christmas season more about consumer goods than the Good News. But this year has been different. The COVID-19 pandemic – in particular, the necessity of physical distancing - has made us consider and recognize what aspects of our lives are most valuable. For many, that has been the appreciation of and longing for human connection.
Gertrude Rompré, National member from Saskatchewan
Advent is my favourite season. It’s a time that calls us to embrace the quiet, winter darkness and nurture the seed of new beginnings. We watch and wait for the Light of Christ to spring forth in our world, we prepare and repent of our sloppy selfishness, we choose to rejoice and sing amidst the chaos, and, finally, we welcome Christ ever more fully into our hearts. This act of welcome, in turn, allows us to reach out and serve our broken world. This rich liturgical season offers us hope in face of despair.
