To the beloved faithful of the Old Roman Apostolate

Carissimi

“Fortiter Sperate”—Have Courage and Hope! As we stand on the threshold of a new year, these words encapsulate the spirit with which we are called to approach the challenges and blessings that lie ahead. For ours is not a hope rooted in fleeting things, but in the eternal promises of Christ, whose Incarnation we continue to celebrate in this holy season.

This day, the Octave of Christmas, also marks the Feast of the Circumcision of Our Lord. In this sacred mystery, we are reminded of Christ’s humility, obedience, and His mission of salvation. The New Year begins with the Holy Name of Jesus, the Name that is above every name, proclaiming to all the world that “God saves.” It is a day that invites us to reflect deeply on our calling as disciples and to recommit ourselves to living lives of fidelity, humility, and mission.

Looking back over the year that has passed, we find much to give thanks for, even amidst the trials we have faced. In November, the passage of the Assisted Dying Bill in certain jurisdictions brought with it a stark reminder of the moral darkness that threatens to engulf our societies. Yet, the Apostolate responded with courage and clarity, proclaiming the truth that every human life, from conception to natural death, is sacred and inviolable. In a culture increasingly indifferent to the dignity of life, our steadfast witness has been a sign of hope and a call to repentance.

Amidst these challenges, God has also blessed us abundantly. This past year, we celebrated the ordinations of priests and deacons, men who have answered the call to serve Christ and His Church with courage and generosity. These ordinations are a testament to the Lord’s faithfulness, even in times of difficulty, and they inspire us to persevere in our mission. In the wider Old Roman tradition the consecration of two new bishops in America promises greater collaboration and a future for our efforts, pray for their Excellencies, ✠Luis Baez and ✠Raphael Villareal Falquez.

Similarly, the incardination of priests from other jurisdictions into the Apostolate has brought renewed strength and vitality to our mission. These clergy, drawn by the Apostolate’s unwavering fidelity to the faith of our fathers, have chosen to unite with us in proclaiming the timeless truths of the Gospel. Their decision speaks to the hunger for authenticity and truth in a world often lost in compromise and confusion.

I was privileged this year to visit many of our communities around the world. These pastoral visits allowed me to witness first-hand the vitality and faith of our clergy, religious, and lay faithful. From the missions of Asia to the parishes of Europe and the Americas, I saw a living Church, united in its love for Christ and its commitment to the sacred tradition of the Apostles. These encounters were moments of profound grace, reminding me of the beauty and resilience of our Apostolate.

The Feast of the Circumcision offers a profound model for how we should approach the coming year. In submitting to the rite of circumcision, Our Lord demonstrated His perfect humility and obedience to the Father’s will. He who is above the Law subjected Himself to it, prefiguring the ultimate sacrifice He would make on the Cross for the salvation of humanity. His example calls us to live lives of humility and fidelity, embracing God’s will in all things.

This feast also reminds us of the sanctity of the human body, a temple of the Holy Spirit, created in God’s image. In a world that increasingly distorts and desecrates the body, we are called to be witnesses to its dignity and sanctity, defending life, marriage, and the family as God ordained them.

Finally, this day proclaims the Holy Name of Jesus, a name that is both a prayer and a proclamation. It is a name that brings peace, salvation, and hope, reminding us of the centrality of Christ in all that we do. As we begin this new year, let us carry the Holy Name of Jesus on our lips and in our hearts, boldly proclaiming His truth to a world in desperate need of it.

Let this year be one of renewal. Deepen your prayer life, frequent the sacraments, and immerse yourself in the Word of God and the teachings of the Church. Commit to acts of charity, within your families and beyond, being the hands and feet of Christ in a world longing for His love. Be unafraid to speak the truth, even when it is unpopular, for the truth of Christ is the light that scatters darkness.

Above all, let us remain united in faith, hope, and charity. The strength of the Church lies in its unity, and our unity is rooted in the Eucharist, the source and summit of our faith. Let us support one another in prayer and action, building up the Body of Christ as we labour for the Kingdom.

As we begin this new year, may the Blessed Virgin Mary, whose fiat made the Incarnation possible, guide and intercede for us. May the Holy Name of Jesus, proclaimed today, be ever on our lips and in our hearts. And may the Most Holy Trinity bless you and your families abundantly, granting you the grace to persevere in faith, hope, and love.

I.X.

Brichtelmestunensis
S. Silvestri Papæ et Conf. MMXXIV A.D.

Oremus

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