This reflection on the life of the Catholic Church in England and Wales is offered as part of the ongoing synodal process and in preparation for the second meeting of the Synod of Bishops in Rome.
The national synthesis drawn up for the 2023 Synod, spoke of how hearts had been awakened and the desire to ‘keep walking in attentive faith, seeking to recognise Christ more clearly as our way to truth and life.’ This remains so as we encounter the risen Lord among us, setting our hearts ablaze, and giving fresh impetus to all in proclaiming his message of goodness and Truth.
As we approach Pentecost, a precious time in our liturgical year, let us pray for a fresh outpouring of Holy Spirit upon the Church, so that we will be ready to receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit and bring life to the face of the earth.
Come Holy Spirit fill the hearts of your faithful
and enkindle in them the power of your love.
Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created
and you shall renew the face of the earth
Ancient prayer to the Holy Spirit
Towards a Synodal Church in Mission
