18th December 2024
To the Parishioners in the Archdiocese
Dear brothers and sisters
This year has flown by, and you have all been in my prayers, particularly as we approach the birth of the Christ-child in just over a week’s time. I hope and pray that your Advent has been graced; and that you have had an opportunity among all the busy-ness of Christmas preparations to ready your hearts to be filled with the wonder and hope that the birth of Jesus gives to each one of us.
I want to take this opportunity to thank you for your witness to faith and for the life of our church communities this last 12 months. Thriving parishes and schools are signs of God in our midst, and as I have journeyed around the Archdiocese throughout 2024 I have been filled with gratitude for the ministry I have seen. I want to thank you also for your care of our priests and the support you give to them in their ministry.
I hope that during this Christmas season you may have an opportunity to rest and revitalise your spirits. Thank you to those of you who work during this time so that others may rest, it is very much appreciated.
I look forward to celebrating the Jubilee year of Hope with you in 2025 as we find ways to thank God for all we have and to grow in the virtue of hope.
May the joy and peace of this Christmas season be with and your families.
Yours in Christ
+Paul Martin SM
Archbishop of Wellington