EDITORIAL

JOURNEYS TOWARDS HOPE

BY Rafael Armada | EDITOR

WE ARE living in challenging times. Conflicts and uncertainties are very much part of our world. One matter of great concern which we are witnessing is, undoubtedly, the phenomenon of global warming and its devastating effects, such as recurrent droughts, floods, etc. These natural calamities are caused by human over-exploitation of nature. Overheating of the earth threatens the sustainability of our common home and the life conditions of her creatures. As these lines are written, COP 28, a climate summit of world leaders called to discuss ways to reduce global warming, is getting underway in Dubai. There is a worldwide growing awareness of the fact that our current life-style and an economic system, which generate more inequality and suffering, cannot remain unchallenged or static. Reducing greenhouse emissions is non-negotiable for the existence of the planet and the preservation of her living conditions, starting with the survival of human life. Decisions to curb destructive trends by international bodies are crucial, but our own personal contribution, namely the choice of a more sober life-style, is also of significant importance. The implementation of alternative renewable energies and a more moderate and responsible use of resources is a necessity for life on earth: now and in the future.

Pope Francis invites us in Laudato Deo, his recent Apostolic exhortation, to maintain our hopefulness at international gatherings, such as COP28, despite past disappointments. Hope is part of our Christian identity, and the journeys described in this edition of Worldwide offer us reasons to remain hopeful. Preserving beauty in our life of faith through music, art, and other means helps us to raise our souls to God. Our journey of catechesis, education in Christian doctrine and praxis, helps us to gain a better understanding of the great treasure which we carry in earthen vessels (2 Cor 4:7), as followers of Christ, and it increases our hope. On-going formation should equip us to better accompany those who are struggling to find liberation in their lives, marked by suffering and frustration, as experienced by many refugees, fleeing from violence and war (we read about this inside). We are carriers of hope and the church has embarked herself on a journey of synodality, of listening, participation, communion and mission which, as Archbishop Dabula explains to us, is an invitation to ignite one another with hope. As a community we cannot remain indifferent and untouched by the challenges that confront us. However big or small, our contributions and our voices advocating for a better world are essential. In a year when we, the Comboni Missionaries, celebrate the 100th anniversary of our presence in South Africa, we need to renew our commitment to walk with God’s people as carriers of hope.

The season of Advent which is about to commence is also an invitation to hope. God is able to ignite something new in our lives (Is 43:19) if we welcome him and trust that he will open liberating paths for us, as Mary did. Advent is a season in which we ask for the gifts of hope, peace, joy and love for us and for the world. This prepares us to celebrate the Mystery of the Incarnation, the birth of our Saviour.

A blessed season of Advent and Christmas to all!