2025 Theme
Bold & Brave
To be bold and brave in the Catholic faith is to embody the virtues of courage, trust, and perseverance, modeled by the great saints and heroes of the Church. It is to live with a deep conviction that God is with us, even in the midst of challenges, and that our actions, no matter how small, can have an eternal impact. Whether in our personal lives, in our communities, or in the world, boldness and bravery in faith are essential to fulfilling the mission Christ has given to each of us - to love God and love our neighbor.
In our Catholic Faith, the theme of being bold and brave is deeply rooted in the call to live authentically as disciples of Christ, even when it requires courage, strength, and trust in God’s plan. This theme underscores the ideas that following Jesus is not always easy or without challenges, but it is through this very boldness and bravery that one finds true freedom and fulfillment in God’s will. We are called to live out our beliefs with confidence and conviction, even in a world that may not always support or understand those beliefs. The boldness of saints before us, is a powerful reminder of what it means to stand firm in one’s faith despite persecution and suffering. In today’s world, boldness might look like speaking the truth in love, standing up for justice, or offering a witness of faith in environments where religious expression is marginalized or ridiculed. It calls for courage to act accordingly to one’s values in the face of social pressures, and to remain steadfast in the face of opposition.
Bravery in the Catholic faith is often seen as the willingness to face the unknown with trust in God’s provision. It’s about having the strength to confront the difficulties of life - whether personal trials, societal injustices, or spiritual struggles- while trusting that God will provide the grace needed to persevere. We must live the Gospel message authentically. It involves embracing a radical trust in God;s love and mercy and taking risks in service to others. This courage is not about seeking personal glory, but rather it is a desire to make a difference in the world by sharing God’s love, mercy, and truth. The bold and the brave Catholics are those who stand up for what is right, even when it’s unpopular or uncomfortable.
As women, we can embrace leadership in faith communities, challenge gender-based injustices, and dare to lead with compassion and wisdom. We are called to continue Christ’s legacy by being witnesses of His love and advocating for the dignity of all people, particularly women and children who are often marginalized or overlooked.