Jacksonville, Fla. – Bishop Felipe J. Estévez, the spiritual leader of the Diocese of St. Augustine, Fla., released his first pastoral letter to the people of the Diocese of St. Augustine.

“Come, Live in the Light” is the bishop’s invitation for the faithful to better understand and know their gift of faith, so they can in turn, reach out to those who dwell in darkness and share that gift of faith with those in our community who do not know Christ or may have forgotten his loving care.

“My first pastoral letter since becoming Bishop of St. Augustine in June 2011 is an opportunity to promote the Church’s mission of evangelization,” said Bishop Estévez. “Also, it is a response to those who shared their thoughts and hopes during nine listening sessions conducted throughout the diocese last fall.”

In his pastoral letter, Bishop Estévez outlines and explains three major goals he is committed to for the future of the diocese – proclaim the Gospel, enrich parish life, and engage our youth and young adults.

Copies of the pastoral letter – printed in both English and Spanish – was distributed throughout the diocese along with the bimonthly magazine, the St. Augustine Catholic. For a copy of the pastoral letter or the magazine, please contact the Office of Communications, (904) 262-3200, ext. 108.