The recent Day for Religious at Carfin offered a powerful reflection on the Jubilee and its approaching conclusion. Fr. Richard Reid, CSsR, spoke about the beauty, wonder, and busyness of religious life, emphasising the central Christian virtue of hope. As Pope Francis reminded the Church, hope gives meaning to the journey and strength to face the future with an open spirit.
Religious were invited to look forward rather than back, recognising that the Jubilee is not simply something that ends but a call to renewed purpose. The Jubilee logo itself illustrates this vision: four figures representing humanity from the four corners of the world, united in solidarity, with the lead pilgrim clinging to the Cross, the sign of faith and an unshakeable hope.
Fr Reid also highlighted the prophetic identity received in baptism, sharing the words of St Oscar Romero: “Each one of you has to be God’s microphone… a messenger, a prophet.” Every baptised person carries this responsibility.
In today’s digital age, this mission extends online. Reflecting on Meredith Gould’s adaptation of St Teresa of Avila’s prayer, Fr Reid noted: “Christ has no online presence but yours… no posts but yours… no updates but yours.” The digital world is another place where the Gospel can be shared through authentic witness.
As the Jubilee year moves toward its conclusion, a question was posed for reflection: What is being carried forward into 2026? For Religious in Scotland, this remains an essential part of vocation, ministry, and mission.
