Celebrating Sunday of the Word of God
On January 26, churches around the world will observe the Sunday of the Word of God, and Pope Francis has chosen a significant theme inspired by Psalm 119:74: “I hope in your word.”
Jan 26, 2025

On January 26, churches around the world will observe the Sunday of the Word of God, and Pope Francis has chosen a significant theme inspired by Psalm 119:74: “I hope in your word.” This message is particularly relevant in times of confusion, worry, and uncertainty, offering people a reminder of the power and hope found in God’s Word.
Why God’s Word gives us hope
In the Bible, there is a powerful story of a Roman centurion who came to Jesus for help. His servant was ill, and he told Jesus, “only say the word, and my servant shall be healed” (Matthew 8:8). The soldier’s faith showed an important truth: God’s words are not mere promises — they hold real power because they come directly from God Himself.
Later, when many of Jesus’ followers were abandoning Him due to the difficulty of His teachings, Peter responded, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life” (John 6:68). Peter’s response wasn’t just about the teachings, but about his deep trust in Jesus. He knew that Jesus’ words were life-giving, not just words to be heard. This encounter teaches us that when we read the Bible, we’re not simply reading ancient texts; we are hearing directly from someone who loves us, cares for us, and is with us now.
Understanding the theme
Psalm 119, the source of the theme, is a long poem that praises the importance o f God’s Word. The psalmist doesn’t see God’s teachings as a list of rules, but as promises from a loving God who is always present. The psalmist rejoices in the guidance that God's Word provides, viewing it as something that brings joy and enhances life.
This understanding connects with Jesus’ promise to His disciples in Matthew 28:20: “I am with you always, to the close of the age.” When we open the Bible, we are not just learning about God, we are connecting with Him. The Bible becomes an invitation to spend time with God, drawing us closer to His presence.
Celebrating the Word in 2025
The Sunday of the Word of God will be marked by various special celebrations in churches across the globe. These may include:
• Special services where the Bible will be placed at the centre of worship, highlighting its importance.
• Bible study groups and prayer sessions, fostering deeper connections with Scripture.
• Distributing Bibles to encourage daily reading and reflection on God’s Word.
• Training new readers to proclaim the Bible during Mass, emphasising the sacredness of Scripture in worship.
Additionally, this celebration occurs within the context of a Jubilee year in the Catholic Church, a time of renewal that invites the faithful to refresh and strengthen their relationship with God.
Bringing Christians together
The Sunday of the Word of God is significant for Catholics and all Christians. The Bible is a common bond that unites Christians, regardless of their denomination. It serves as a foundation for mutual understanding, allowing Christians to unite in shared reverence for God's Word. This celebration of Scripture reminds us of what unites Christians across different traditions, helping to build greater unity and collaboration among believers.
What this means for us
When we say, “I hope in your word,” it is more than simply wishing that God’s promises will come true. It expresses our trust in the God who speaks to us through the Bible. It’s like having a friend who always keeps their promises—we trust them not only because of what they say, but because we know them. In times of uncertainty or fear, the Bible offers us reassurance. It reminds us that we are not reading a distant or irrelevant text, but hearing from God, who is always with us, cares for us, and keeps His promises. Through the Bible, God continues to speak to us today, guiding us through life’s challenges.
This celebration is an invitation to view the Bible not simply as a collection of teachings or historical facts, but as a living connection with God. It is an opportunity to deepen our relationship with Him, to trust that He is walking with us in every moment, and to recognise that His Word is a source of hope, strength, and comfort.
Ultimately, the Sunday of the Word of God reminds us that the Bible is more than just a book — it is the living Word of God. And in it, we find not only knowledge, but a constant companion on our journey of faith. This is a message we can truly hope in.
Reference: https://shorturl.at/Vl4DV
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