Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, Archbishop of Newark, has issued a pastoral letter addressing the Catholic community on the subject of holiness. He emphasizes that all humans are created in the image and likeness of God and are called to be saints.

"What does it mean to be holy?" Cardinal Tobin asks, referencing the Catechism of the Catholic Church: "The desire for God is written in the human heart" (#27). He explains that holiness signifies our union with God and closeness to Him.

In his encyclical Spe Salvi, Pope Benedict XVI writes: "Life is like a voyage on the sea of history, often dark and stormy, a voyage in which we watch for the stars that indicate the route." The Pope identifies saints as these guiding stars who lead us to Jesus Christ, "the true light."

Cardinal Tobin notes that while many saints have been officially recognized by the Church through canonization, countless others have lived lives devoted to Christ without such recognition. He underscores that everyone is called to holiness but acknowledges that many find themselves distant from God. To aid in this journey, he highlights the importance of sacraments like the Eucharist and penance.

"Thanks be to God," Cardinal Tobin writes, "His grace and mercy are infinite." He mentions that Christians believe it is possible to grow in holiness even after death through prayers for those who have passed away.

The Cardinal points out that saints guide us through their daily lives' testimony, sacrifices for others, and devotion to Christ. He believes prayer is central to their success: "Saints are men and women who know how to pray," he states.

Pope Francis' exhortation Gaudete et Exsultate is also cited: “Holiness does not make you less human because it is an encounter between your weakness and God's strength.”

In conclusion, Cardinal Tobin calls upon believers to seek God's grace so His love can bring them closer to Him.

Sincerely yours in Christ Redeemer,

Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R.

Archbishop of Newark

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