The title refers to the passage from Matthews Gospel (28:19ff) whereas Jesus challenges his apostles to continue his mission and ministry. This text of course is read for the early (and present) Church as a mandate to continue the good works of the Lord. This same passage refers to the U.S. Bishops document on Evangelization for the U.S. The ideal of course is to share the Good News of the Gospel, drawing people into the faith. Not only this accomplished through the preaching and teaching ministry of the Church, but also by its pastoral care.
This past weekend we had First Communion on Saturday, and Confirmation on Sunday. To be sure these were wonderful celebrations with much joy and happiness. My fear though is that these sacraments are seen as 'magical moments' where holiness is poured into these young people. These children will still need to live a life of discipleship, making choices between good and evil, and living a lifestyle commensurate with the values of the Gospel. This becomes exceedingly difficult these days.
This past weekend also there were violent attacks against catholic churches in Congo and Tanzania. In our own nation it becomes less and less straightforward to live a catholic-christian life. The 'forces' of government and popular opinion are against the values and morals we profess. In its protocol to advance religious liberty and freedom in particular in regards to the issue of marriage and family life, the U.S. Bishops have stated:
"The pastoral strategy is essentially a call and encouragement to prayer and sacrifice—it's meant to be simple," said Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone of San Francisco, chairman of the bishops' Subcommittee for the Promotion and Defense of Marriage. "It's not meant to be another program but rather part of a movement for Life, Marriage, and Religious Liberty, which engages the New Evangelization and can be incorporated into the Year of Faith. Life, Marriage, and Religious Liberty are not only foundational to Catholic social teaching but also fundamental to the good of society," he said.
The Bishops go on to talk about the reality that marriage and family life are fundamental in the life of the Church, but also in the life of society. It is here that values and mores are passed on. Moreso Marriage is the continuation of God's plan for men and women in the world today, an the means by which we share in God's love.
Discipleship embraces the life of the cross. By our catholic lifestyle we bear witness to the reality of the Paschal Mystery. Our talk, response to others, choices we make, are all informed by the One, Holy, Catholic, Apostolic Church. Like the folks who walk into the church on Easter Vigil we walk into darkness, led by the light of Christ, possessing that same light.
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