Archbishop Prowse 2025 Easter Message
2025 is known in the Catholic Church as a “Jubilee Year of Pilgrims of Hope”.
Our Easter pilgrimage of hope continues “in a synodal way” as we reflect on the great blessings of this holy season. Having embraced the spiritual practices of Lent, we are now called to live fully in the joy and renewal of Easter.
The path forward begins with responding communally to the GREAT COMMANDMENT (Matt. 22/37-40). Easter reminds us of the transformative power of loving God and our neighbour with pure hearts, free from hatred and division. We must foster prayerful silences, embrace repentance, and engage in meaningful dialogue, even with those we disagree with. By discerning common ground through the Holy Spirit, we embody the essence of being “synodal”—walking together in faith.
Equally important is our communal response to the GREAT COMMISSION (Matthew 28/19-20). The joy of Easter propels us to share the Good News and welcome others into the living body of Christ through Baptism. Empowered by the Holy Spirit, we become “fishers of people” (Mark 1/18), intentionally reaching out with open hearts to bring others closer to Jesus and His Church. Synodality reminds us that this evangelisation involves encounter, conversion, and the sharing of our God-given gifts. It is a shared responsibility that calls all of us to be missionary disciples.
As we move forward as a community, let’s focus on becoming a vibrant, Trinitarian Church. By balancing sound governance with relational spirituality, we can create an evangelising Church alive with the Spirit. We should discern our individual and communal charisms while sharing responsibility for our mission.
Easter is a time for renewal and action. Simple acts of prayer, kindness, and deep listening enable us to embody a synodal spirit. Choosing to listen, discern, and pray for others reflects the joy and renewal of Easter.
One critical issue facing our communities this Easter is mental health. With the challenges brought about by the breakdown of family life, growing individualism, and the prevalence of narcissistic behaviours, this issue continues to affect many. Yet, in the midst of this suffering, we see acts of quiet courage and resilience. The Risen Christ is closest to those who endure such trials, and we, as disciples, are called to be present to them in love and compassion.
Easter is a season of hope, one that calls us to be “Pilgrims of Hope” in every sense. Let us walk together, renewed in faith, as we respond to the GREAT COMMANDMENT by loving purely and the GREAT COMMISSION by evangelising joyfully. May we build a Church that reflects the glory of the Resurrection and brings hope to the world.
Archbishop Christopher Prowse
Catholic Archdiocese of Canberra and Goulburn