Religious Education

A Year of Hope and Faith

2025 has been an extraordinary and deeply significant year within the Catholic Church. We began the year with Pope Francis opening the Jubilee Year on December 24th 2024, centred on the theme “Pilgrims of Hope.” Sadly, we also experienced the passing of Pope Francis, followed by the historic election of a new Pope. Throughout the Jubilee, countless groups have travelled to Rome to pray with the Holy Father and to enrich their own faith journeys. I feel incredibly blessed to have been among those pilgrims and to have shared in such a meaningful experience.

This year also brought great joy to the Church with the canonisation of two inspiring young saints, St Carlo Acutis and St Pier Giorgio Frassati. St Carlo’s deep love for the Eucharist, lived with simplicity and devotion at a young age, continues to inspire people around the world. St Pier Giorgio’s life of charity, courage, and dedication to serving those in need reminds us of the power of faith in action. The witness of these young saints encourages us all to live our faith with authenticity, generosity, and joy, and to bring hope to those around us in our daily lives.

Just last weekend, more than six thousand young people from across Australia gathered in prayer and celebration at the Australian Catholic Youth Festival. Being part of the day as a volunteer reminded me once again of the joy, vibrancy, and hope that our faith offers. I pray that in some small way, your own family has also been enriched by this Jubilee Year of Hope. 

As we continue forward, may this spirit of hope and the example of these saints accompany each of us into the year ahead.