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CAFOD
Advent calendar 2024 - 19 December

Pilgrims journeying to Northampton Cathedral

For you are my hope, O Lord.

Psalm 70:5

Throughout the season of Advent, we hear many prophecies of the coming Messiah. We witness a people waiting in expectation, trusting that God will fulfil his promises. This hope rests surely on God, whose faithfulness makes hope possible.

In his reflection for the 2025 Jubilee of Hope, Bishop Stephen Wright, Chair of the Board of Trustees of CAFOD, offers these powerful words: “Christian hope is not a last resort, after everything else has been tried. Nor is Christian hope just a matter of optimism. Hope rests in the certainty of Jesus’ victory over sin and death. Hope is a source for strength and action. Hope expands our vision, inspires us to persevere in demanding times and enables us to make visible God's reign in our midst by living lives of solidarity, compassion and love.”

This Advent, let’s pray for a hope that is active in its trust in God’s promises and bold in its imagination, so we may shine the light of hope for those who are searching for it.

Advent prayer

Be with us today, Spirit of God.
Ground us in your peace.
Guide us with your wisdom.
Encourage us with your hope.
Amen.

Act

Watch Bishop Stephen’s video reflection on Pilgrims of Hope, the 2025 Jubilee theme