Evangelii Gaudium Sunday calls us to be joyous in proclaiming our faith. “Evangelii Gaudium” is Latin for “Joy of the Gospel”. The day supports the work carried out by the Mission Directorate on behalf of the Bishops’ Conference.
A key focus of work for the next few years is responding to Pope Francis’ calling of a Jubilee Year in 2025 with the theme Pilgrims of Hope. The Holy Father has invited the whole Church to prepare for the Jubilee in the two years prior through:
- Reflecting on the four Constitutions of the Second Vatican Council in 2023.
- Deepening our prayer life, with a special focus on the Lord’s Prayer, in 2024.
To support the Church in England and Wales in this important initiative the Mission Directorate has produced a series of videos on the four Constitutions which reflect on the Liturgy, the Word of God, the Church and on its role in the modern world.
Watch the videos here: https://www.cbcew.org.uk/evangelii-gaudium-sunday
A range of resources are being prepared for the Year of Prayer in 2024 which include a course on the Lord’s Prayer from small groups for Lent, encouragement to try different ways of praying from the tradition of the Church. The Mission Directorate will be supporting the Jubilee co-ordinator appointed by each diocese.
Please support the Mission Directorate through prayer and giving to the second collection. However much you give, big or small, it will go directly to support this important work to bring the joy of the Gospel to all.
Prayers of the Faithful
- As we respond to Pope Francis’ invitation to prepare for the Jubilee Year in 2025 may we seek opportunities to deepen our knowledge and grow in faith.
- The disciples asked, ‘Lord, teach us to pray’; may we give more time to prayer, lifting our hearts and minds to God.
