THE PARISH OF BAULKHAM HILLS

Whom Do We Belong To: In Christ We Move and Live and Have Our Being

Human life is shaped by the desire to belong. Often, however, this sense of belonging is tied to conditions: achievement, status, or conformity. In contrast to this stands the Christian promise of belonging through faith. Those who orient their lives around Jesus Christ experience an identity based not on personal achievement, but on the principle of grace. In the second reading taken from Paul’s Letter to the Romans, this connection is often described using the phrase “in Christ”—a state of being rooted. Believers become part of a worldwide community that transcends familiarity, national, and social boundaries. This sense of belonging provides existential security: one no longer needs to earn one’s place; one is already unconditionally accepted.

Life in and with Christ does not remain at a standstill; it demands and brings about an inner transformation. In theology, this is often referred to as “rebirth” or “renewal.” It is not a matter of mere moral self-improvement, but rather a reorientation of one’s entire being. This renewal begins with the realization that the old, self-centered life reaches its limits. The Bible speaks of this as conversion (repentance)—a conscious change of direction. Through the forgiveness grounded in the death and resurrection of Jesus, the burden of the past is lifted. A person becomes inwardly free to cast off old wounds, feelings of guilt, and destructive patterns of behaviour. Space opens up for something entirely new: a renewed mindset characterized by love, compassion, and justice.

Life “in Christ” is not a purely theoretical construct, but an active way of life.

Just as a branch can bear fruit only if it remains attached to the vine, faith thrives on a daily relationship. Prayer, the reading of the Scriptures, and silence are the channels through which this connection is nurtured. Jesus’ life was characterized by reaching out to the marginalized, loving one’s enemies, and humility. A life of following Him means translating these values into one’s own daily life—at work, within the family, and in society. Because the Resurrection signifies victory over death and transience, life in Christ is sustained by a deep, unshakable hope. This hope provides the strength to stand firm, even during crises and difficult times.

Belonging, renewal, and life in Jesus Christ form an inseparable unity. Unconditional acceptance inspires the courage for inner transformation, and this transformation manifests itself in a renewed, loving way of relating to oneself and others. It is an invitation to a lifelong journey—sustained by the assurance that the Author of faith accompanies every step of the way.

The renewal of our Parish is not a project that can be strategically planned and implemented through one’s own efforts. It is the organic outcome of a community that fully refocuses on its centre: Jesus Christ. When life with Him becomes the priority and belonging to Him forms the foundation of identity, the old breaks open and the new emerges. Renewal begins with the individual—and spreads from there into the community and, ultimately, into the world.

Have a good weekend

Fr Joe