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Pilgrimage of Hope

The Holy Year 2025 “Pilgrims of Hope”, invites us to reflect on what it means to be a pilgrim in our daily lives. This Jubilee Year is a call to relight our faith, embrace the hope found in the Gospel, and go on a spiritual journey that brings us closer to God and to one another. Holy Years are special times set aside for spiritual renewal, reconciliation, and grace.

Do Not Be Afraid

In this spirit, the Gospel reading for the Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time, (Luke 5:1-11), is the story of Jesus stepping into Simon Peter’s boat. After a night of unsuccessful fishing, Peter is tired and discouraged. When Jesus tells him to “put out into deep water and lower your nets for a catch,” Peter replies, “Master, we have worked hard all night and have caught nothing, but at your command I will lower the nets.” This trust leads to an extraordinary catch, so great that the nets begin to tear and the boats nearly sink. Peter reacts with humility and awe. Falling to his knees, he says, “Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man.” Yet Jesus does not turn away. Instead, He invites Peter and his companions to leave everything behind and follow Him, promising, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men.”

Pilgriming with Hope

Like Peter, we too are called to put out into the deep, to move beyond our comfort zones, and to trust in God’s plan even when the path seems uncertain. As pilgrims of hope, we are invited to set aside our fears and doubts, and to embrace the mission of discipleship with courage and faith. Let us follow the words of Jesus, “Do not be afraid,” and embrace the mission of bringing His light and hope to the world.