The challenging vision

The 25th annivesary of the pontificate of John Paul II, and the beatification of Mother Teresa on October 19 are a great inspiration to all Maltese, religious and laity alike, while they are called in living their commitment requested from them by the Diocesan Synod.

What a blessing having outstanding personalities like John Paul II and Mother Teresa! They both tell us: "Ahead of you there's a challenging vision, and the Good Lord has given Malta so many special gifts and talents to use."

It is opportune to keep in mind the message of Pope John Paul to the National Pastoral Congress of England (Liverpool, 1980): "I invite you all to place all your trust in God whose power, working in us, can do infinitely more than we can ask or imagine."

Under the guidance of Archbishop Joseph Mercieca and of Bishop Annetto Depasquale - to whom we all wish a speedy recovery - the Synodal Assembly was an experience of listening, of speaking and dialogue. Now is the time for action. It is in this very spirit that the Maltese bishops, inspired by Pope John Paul, address encouraging words to adults, young people, married people, single people, religious and priests.

A Christian Outlook believes this is a new springtime for Malta and wishes to call everyone's attention to the challenge of the vision of their role in the Church in Malta in the light of their special gifts. We have to reflect in depth on the encouraging words addressed to us all by Pope John Paul on the Granaries in Floriana on May 9, 2001, on the solemn occasion of the beatification of Dun Gorg Preca, Nazju Falzon and Sr Adeodata Pisani: "Malta, Malta, the Lord has done so much for you!"

It is in this spirit that we have to follow the example of Pope John Paul and Mother Teresa and work hard. Our life is like an orange: it has to be squeezed until there is nothing left in it. This is precisely the example the Pope has been sharing with us during his crippling illness. Non recuso laborem (I do not avoid work) for the salvation of souls.

The vision of the Malta Synod is very challenging. It is a great privilege and a responsibility. The time for planning is over. The work now begins. There are many thousands capable of giving themselves without counting the cost. They are determined to respond practically and effectively.

In the spirit of John Paul II, a great friend of youth and at his best in his encounters with them, we appeal to all Maltese youth: "In our young people we see both a source of vitality and hope and a challenge to the adult Church to make their witness even more meaningful and purposeful."

The young too played their particular, valuable role in the earlier stages of the Synod. They have the honour and the distinction to feel - as we all do - they are the Chruch of today and of tomorrow, and that the Pope, and our bishops, need them and want them to take their rightful place. To them too the Pope addresses the message of his pontificate, Aprite le porte a Cristo (open your doors to Christ).

The challenging vision before all Maltese is to follow Christ, the Way, the Truth and the Life. As the Pope said, in our lives, we can both discover Christ and be captivated by him. At this very important time in history all Maltese can experience Christ through prayer, worship and service.

Like John Paul II himself, we are all called to serve and to give witness to other people and to other European nations. Inspired by our Pope, we have to undertake with courage and living faith the herculearn task that lies ahead.

It will cost us much in sacrifice, work and prayer. But we will go ahead joyfully in union and with all followers of the Risen Lord.