A Process for Renewal in the Diocese of Leeds

Putting Out into the Deep

In his Apostolic Letter Novo Millennio Ineunte Pope John Paul II invited the whole Church to step out in faith into the Third Christian Millennium, in the words of the Gospel to “put out into the deep.” (Lk 5:4) - “Duc in altum! These words ring out for us today, and they invite us to remember the past with gratitude, to live the present with enthusiasm, and to look forward to the future with confidence: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” (Heb 13:8) (NMI n.1)

Starting Afresh from Christ

In this spirit, the Church of the Diocese of Leeds, guided by Bishop Arthur Roche, is seeking to make the next five years a time of spiritual renewal. This is inspired by Pope John Paul’s invitation to start afresh from Christ (cf. NMI n. 29). Confident that the Lord is with His Church until the end of the age (cf. Mt 28:20), our faith in Christ’s risen presence prompts us to ask the same question voiced by Peter in Jerusalem: “What must we do?” (Acts 2:37). In other words, how are we to respond to Christ and his Gospel in our place and time?