Sunday, August 10, was a day to remember! Over 300 people from across our Island – along with many of our priests – gathered at Our Lady of Hope Retreat Centre for the very first Jubilee for Families in this Jubilee Year of Hope.
Bishop Joseph began by welcoming everyone in five languages – English, French, Spanish, Filipino, and Mi’kmaq – a sign of the rich diversity of our Diocese. The celebration opened with a multilingual Rosary in six languages, a true foretaste of heaven’s unity.
The heart of the day was the Holy Mass, followed by a moving testimony from a family whose faith carried them through life’s challenges – a living witness to the very spirit of this Jubilee Year of Hope. Afterwards, the faithful spent time in quiet prayer before the Blessed Sacrament, accompanied by uplifting music.
There was joy everywhere – in the beautiful music offered by talented musicians, in the laughter of children enjoying games and treats, and in the simple but delicious food that brought us all together.
Gratitude goes to the many volunteers, organizers, parish groups and generous helpers of all ages whose dedication made this day possible. From preparing the grounds, leading music, and serving food, to guiding activities and welcoming guests, every contribution was a blessing to the diocesan family.
From Bishop Joseph’s Homily:
Drawing on the theme “Pilgrims of Hope” and the readings of the day, Bishop Joseph invited the faithful to see life not as a fixed destination but as a journey with God – a pilgrimage that calls for trust, courage, and faith.
He reflected on the journeys of Abraham and Sarah, who left everything familiar to follow God’s promise; Moses and the Israelites, who walked forty years toward the Promised Land; and Mary and Joseph, whose lives were marked by travel, trust, and obedience to God’s plan.
The faithful were reminded that “faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” Hope moves us forward — it never stands still. Every step, whether smooth or difficult, is part of our pilgrimage toward God’s Kingdom.
Bishop Joseph also challenged those present to travel light — to place less trust in material possessions and more in God’s providence — noting with a smile that he has “never seen a funeral procession with a U-Haul following the hearse.”
As pilgrims of hope, the faithful were called to walk together:
• To be hope for the weary
• Encouragement for the discouraged
• Light for those searching
This, he said, is the heart of the Jubilee Year: a time for spiritual renewal – becoming the people God created us to be so that others may see His love in us. Even if the journey sometimes feels like it is going in circles, God will always lead His people home.
This Jubilee for Families was more than a gathering — it was a deep spiritual celebration, a visible sign that we are one family of faith, walking together as Pilgrims of Hope.
