Summary
Bishop Tony Percy reflects on the significance of the Feast of All Saints, emphasizing that every baptized individual is called to be a saint. He highlights the importance of recognizing holiness in everyday life, as articulated by Pope Francis in his 2018 document "Rejoice and Be Glad." The Pope's message underscores that saints can be found in ordinary people, such as loving parents and hardworking individuals, rather than solely in canonized figures.
Percy outlines the key themes of Pope Francis's document, which includes the call to holiness, the dangers of Pelagianism and Gnosticism, and the relevance of the Beatitudes. He stresses that true holiness stems from the heart rather than sheer willpower. The bishop also discusses the signs of holiness in contemporary society, such as patience, joy, and community, while warning against distractions from the devil in the pursuit of holiness.
The bishop encourages listeners to embrace their unique identities in their spiritual journeys, referencing Thomas Merton's insight that many fail to become saints because they do not accept themselves. He concludes by reiterating that experiencing the love of God is essential for becoming holy, while also acknowledging the need for purification and self-denial as part of the spiritual path.
Show Notes
Bishop Tony Percy says we become saints by allowing Christ’s love to transform our hearts while remaining true to the unique people God created us to be. Surely everyone who entertains this hope, everyone who entertains the hope of being a saint must try to be as pure as Christ
More from The Journey Podcast
On The Journey This Week Fr Mark De Battista says the Solemnity of All Saints honours everyone in heaven, not only those formally canonized. Mother Hilda says by inviting God into our hearts each day we recognise God’s presence and when bad thigs happen, distinguish what is not of God. Plus, Bishop Tony Percy, Trish McCarthy, and Deacon Josh Clayton
Mother Hilda says by inviting God into our hearts each day, we become better able to recognise God’s presence in the good things in our lives and when bad thigs happen, distinguish what is not of God, bringing greater clarity, freedom and peace
Fr Mark De Battista says the Solemnity of All Saints honours everyone in heaven, not only those formally canonized. Becoming a saint is therefore not a single decision but a lifelong, daily dedication, starting each day with a personal commitment; "Today I want to be a saint."
Trish McCarthy says faith is like learning a new language: A meaningful faith journey requires us to invest time and energy through study, practice, relationships and learning from others, allowing faith to shape our lives and deepen our understanding of God
Deacon Josh Clayton says small groups are essential to Christian life, just as they were central to Jesus’ ministry. Within church communities, small groups allow people to share their struggles, be vulnerable, support one another and serve others, helping them grow as disciples of Christ