“Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you.” These are the words of the Risen Jesus before He ascended to the Father. He sends His disciples to make the Lord known, not only in words, but also in deed.   These final words of Jesus in Matthew’s gospel are called the great commissioning. 

On this catechetical Sunday, we are reminded by the words of Jesus of our role as baptized in handing on the faith and being a witness to the Gospel.  Catechetical Sunday is an opportunity for all of us to rededicate ourselves to the mission of Jesus Christ.   

I find it providential that this year’s theme is “Say the Word and My Soul Shall Be Healed.” I believe this is so appropriate given what we are experiencing in our world.  We are reminded that our task is to bring God’s healing word to all peoples – where there is strife, peace; where there is injury, pardon, where there is division, unity; where there is discord, reconciliation; where there is hatred, love; and where there is doubt, faith. We are to be filled with joy and hope and share them with others.  Our world needs missionary disciples who reflect the Risen Lord.  Pope Francis once said: “A true Christian should not look like a person who just came from a funeral.” Rather we must be true to who we are – Easter people, people of life and hope – that is how we bring the healing word of Jesus.  

Our role as catechists is to help others understand that when we bring the Holy Communion to the homebound; work at Sacred Heart Ministry, our sandwich ministry, the Layette program; go on a mission in Nicaragua and many other outreach activities, we are witnesses to our faith as missionary disciples. This is how we can help bring others closer to Christ.   

Leah Harris, our Pastoral Associate for Pastoral Care and Spirituality, who has served as a catechist in her ministry to the seniors, the sick, and the grieving for 13 years will be transitioning to a new job. On your behalf, I’d like to thank her for her dedication and commitment to our faith community.  Leah will be tremendously missed.  As God has called her to share her talents and gifts in a different capacity, let us wish her all the best and keep her in our prayers.  I’d like to share with all of you Leah’s letter to us.  Please read the Parish News article, which contains Leah’s letter.