This weekend we celebrated the Solemnity of Pentecost, one of the most important days of the liturgical year that concludes the Easter season and celebrates the beginning or “birthday” of the Church. With Jesus’ ascension into heaven, while the small band of early disciples was deprived of Jesus’ physical presence, they were assured that they would receive the gift of his Spirit, a gift that would inaugurate the next chapter in history.
We have often heard that we are called to be missionary disciples. In fact, it is a constitutive part of our parish Mission Statement, Making Disciples, along with Worshipping God and Serving Others, which are really all interrelated.
When I was ordained a priest, I put these final words of Jesus from the Gospel of Matthew on the back of my holy card:
“Full authority has been given to me both in heaven and on earth; go therefore and make disciples of all nations. Baptize them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Teach them to carry out everything I have commanded you. And know that I am with you always until the end of the world.”
Matthew 28: 18-20
It was so important to me then as I contemplated my future ministry as a priest. And it is even more important, urgent and needed today. It’s significant to remember that this commission is given to ALL OF US and we need to take it very seriously.
I am truly thrilled that, 32 years later, I am pastor of a parish that makes that same charge the center of our Mission Statement: disciples called to be missionary disciples. We are not only called but sent to give compelling witness to faith. We have all received gifts from the Holy Spirit and are charged to use those gifts and seek ways to share our faith, proclaim the Gospel and always welcome others to share the joy of Jesus Christ.
This past Sunday, from 11:00AM to 12:30PM, Kids Corner hosted a “Pentecost Pizza Party” in the gym to celebrate the “Birthday” of the Church. All young children and families were invited to enjoy lunch, reflect on this special day, and participate in games and activities. Let us celebrate the descent of the Holy Spirit that empowers us to bear the witness Jesus commanded.
God Bless You All,
Msgr. Tom
