Peace and Freedom are inseparable; without peace, there can be no true freedom. In today’s world, this truth is more relevant than ever.

At first glance, it may be hard to recognise the peace and freedom we long for in the world. Acts of senseless violence and the cowardly abuse of power over humanity, often deny the peace and freedom we yearn for.

The word Peace for me evokes thoughts of love, compassion, forgiveness, supporting others, speaking thoughtfully, resilience, striving to be the best version of myself, and living life through God’s word.

The word Freedom means many things to many different people. For me it means striving to live a meaningful, holistic and peaceful life through the word of God in accordance with His will.

Without peace there can be no real freedom.

In his World Day of Peace 2025 message, Pope Francis said: “no one comes into this world doomed to oppression, all of us are brothers and sisters, sons and daughters of the same Father, born to live in FREEDOM in accordance with the Lord’s will.” (cf. Lev 25:17, 25, 43, 46, 55).

Many of us are dedicated to preserving this peace and freedom.

Although our lives may differ, wherever we are, we all have the capacity to choose peace — a choice, I believe, is shaped by the state of our hearts.

Opening our hearts to a relationship with God and living in accordance with His Word, empowers us to make choices that preserves the peace that leads to true freedom.

As I navigate these early days working with the Sisters of Saint Joseph of the Sacred Heart, I see so many wonderful initiatives taking shape, past and present. The Sisters have dedicated their lives to the well-being of humanity, fostering opportunities for society to help sustain peace and freedom around the world.

I see Saint Mary MacKillop’s legacy live on in the hearts and minds of those who choose to follow in her footsteps, for generations to come.

Bringing peace and freedom to a fractured world is one of the greatest gifts we can give.

As we mark this year’s Jubilee 2025 with the theme Pilgrims of Hope, Pope Francis reminds us that we are called to embark on a renewed journey of hope, inspiring one another to contribute to the restoration of God’s justice on earth leading us to peace.

May we all be inspired by our Josephite Sisters and, as sons and daughters of the same Father, open our hearts to the goodness of His Word, which will grant us the peace that leads to true freedom.

Many blessings for 2025!

Renate Cassis
Graphic and Digital Designer, Congregational Administration Services