I wish everyone a very Happy Easter and pray for the blessing of the Risen Lord upon us all and our world. We pray especially that the peace offered by Christ as he appeared to his disciples at Easter may reign everywhere, especially among the peoples of his own land. May new hope spring up, even among the debris of war and the awful reality of human suffering and death.

The Wellspring Project, which I recently initiated in our Diocese, seeks to encourage a new vision and a desire for growth and participation in the life and mission of the Church here in Motherwell. The Scriptures frequently use the image of water and the new growth it brings. The Easter Liturgies highlight water also, and invite us to renew our baptismal promises, revived in the new life in the Spirit poured out upon us in the Sacraments. The Wellspring Project invites our parishes in particular to respond with fervour to our baptismal calling, and to continue to celebrate our faith and to form communities of faith, hope, and love in the great mission entrusted to us by the Lord Jesus. The joy and enthusiasm of Easter does offer an opportunity to welcome and promote participation in our Parish and Diocesan Life. Easter is the time for new beginnings and fresh hope, trusting in the Lord’s abiding presence and the gift of the Holy Spirit.

This Easter I ask for your support, and especially your prayers, for the Wellspring Project, as we all strive to serve the Lord with thanksgiving in our hearts and fresh vigour in our actions.

    With renewed Easter greetings,

    Yours in Christ,