I am in the Philippines as I continue the third leg, which is a parish experience. This time away hasn’t been just a break or a holiday — it has been a sacred opportunity to pause, breathe and truly reflect on life.
A sabbatical, for me, is a gift of time to step back from the busyness of work and responsibilities in order to listen more closely to God. It’s a time to rediscover the deeper meaning and purpose of who I am and to realign my heart with the call that God has placed upon my life.
This reflection has felt even more meaningful because the Catholic Church is celebrating the Jubilee Year 2025, a special event that takes place every 25 years. The Jubilee, rooted in the Old Testament, is a time of forgiveness, reconciliation and new beginnings.
Scripture reminds us, “Proclaim liberty throughout the land to all its inhabitants” (Leviticus 25:10). The theme for this upcoming Jubilee is ‘Pilgrims of Hope’. It’s a powerful reminder that as Christians, we are all pilgrims — journeying together through life with faith and hope, even when the road ahead seems uncertain.
During this sabbatical, I’ve been blessed to visit some incredible churches and holy sites. I stood in awe before the Sagrada Família in Barcelona and prayed inside the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris — places that radiate both faith and history.
But the most profound part of my journey was my visit to Rome, the heart of Catholicism. Standing in St Peter’s Square, concelebrating at different Jubilee Masses by Pope Leo, and seeing thousands gathered in prayer deeply moved me. These were not tourists — they were pilgrims, each carrying their own stories, burdens and prayers.
Two main reflections have stayed with me. First, being a pilgrim means walking with humility and openness, realising that faith is a journey, not a destination. “Blessed are those whose strength is in you, whose hearts are set on pilgrimage” (Psalm 84:5). Second, faith is what keeps us going — it’s the light that guides us when the path seems dark or uncertain. “For we walk by faith, not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7).
This sabbatical has reminded me that wherever we go, we are all pilgrims of hope — walking together towards God’s promise of peace, renewal and everlasting love.
Fr Novie Lim
St Mary’s Catholic Church, Echuca
13°C