Catholic Bishops' Advent Reflections on Mercy and Forgiveness

Archbishop Malcolm McMahon OP, the Archbishop of Liverpool, looks at how the Pope has challenged us to look at the way we live and work through the prism of mercy.

Time for a spiritual spring clean? Here's Bishop John Arnold's Advent reflection on Confession.

We have a great reflection today from Bishop Hlib Lonchyna, Bishop of the Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of the Holy Family in London. He asks the question: Why on Earth should God forgive us our sins?

Bishop Declan Lang is the Bishop of Clifton and Chair of the International Affairs department. In his Advent reflection, he addresses a crucial Advent question and encourages us to pledge ourselves to work for justice and peace in our everyday lives.

Bishop William Kenney, an auxiliary Bishop for the Archdiocese of Birmingham, focuses his Advent reflection on how mercy is a

strength to be admired.

Monsignor Michael McPartland, the Apostolic Prefect of the Falkland Islands, looks at how our Christmas preparations enhance the season of goodwill but we should focus on the Gospels to celebrate the greatest gift of all - the coming of God with his infinite love and mercy.

Archbishop Kevin McDonald, retired Archbishop of Southwark and Director of the Bishops' Office for Interreligious Relations, gives an excellent Advent reflection on the Catholic Church as a place of mercy, healing and deep hope.

In today's Advent reflection, Bishop Peter Doyle, Bishop of Northampton and chair of Bishops' Conference Committee for Marriage and Family Life recalls his work at the Family Synod in Rome in October.

Bishop Alan Williams, Bishop of Brentwood, focuses his Advent reflection on how we can all identify with at least one of the key characters in his favourite parable - the Prodigal Son.

Bishop Philip Egan, Bishop of Portsmouth, looks at a remarkable day centre for the homeless in Aldershot to introduce his Advent reflection. The Vine Centre, staffed mainly by volunteers, helps some of the neediest in our society. It was founded by a parishioner from St Joseph's in the town.