Times of Change 24-25. The end and the beginning of a year is a good time for reflection and change. We are not always in control of our own decisions. For those who deal with serious health challenges and those who find themselves in areas of violence or conflict, there is little freedom to make decisions. When people have little control over their own lives, the daily struggle for survival becomes one of the first priorities.

But quality of life is to be found in more than mere survival. For those who are blessed with the freedom and means to make good use of their time and talents, there is an appeal to invest in these gifts well.

This holiday season I am looking for: Bridge Builders, Connecters, People who are selfless enough to forgive and to trust. In a time of growing individualism and polarization, such community minded people reach across their own bubble to look out for their neighbor.

How can we be there for and with each other? We do not often hear this question being asked in election campaigns, in budget plans, or in society as such.

We are drifting into a mentality of my country first —  my truth or beliefs are holier than yours — my will be done. This self-centered approach of “everybody for himself and God for us all”, was very much in discussion during the process of the Synod that the Vatican instantiated with a world-wide consultation from 2021-2024. It was a journey of walking together and listening intensely to each other. Praying over decisions and change whilst remaining open to the creativity of the Holy Spirit.

2025 is a Holy Year. The motto for the year is “Pilgrims of Hope”. It comes at a time in which many people are worried about the future because of wars, climate change, as well as increasing poverty and migration challenges.

The Holy Year tells us to not lose hope, but instead, to be a reason for hope, comfort and joy. Connect. Build bridges. Reconcile and walk the pilgrim path of listening to others and yourself. Look for what is Holy and treasure it.

The pilgrim sets out on a journey of discovery and faith. What we will find when walking the path will depend largely on how we listen and invest our time.

Time-out is also a choice. It creates a way for reflection and for discovering our own path, when we start walking it. The destination of this Holy Year spiritual pilgrimage is to be found in the will to walk away from depressing times and join travelers on the road in their search for peace and quality of life. In doing so, we may even reach a moment in which we discover God’s presence as a way, into truth and life. Being a pilgrim of hope keeps the door open to that possibility and for better times ahead.

Best wishes, Fr. Sjaak