Answering the Call: Continuing the Prophetic Mission of Christ in Today’s World

When we are baptized, we are baptized into the threefold ministry of Jesus himself (the munera Christi), as priest, prophet, and king. Today we hear the words of the Prophet Isaiah who, speaking on God’s behalf, defines what the mission of the prophet is! The prophet proclaims liberty to captives, healing to the brokenhearted, glad tidings to the poor, and a time of favor from the Lord! Insofar as the Church continues the munera Christi — the very ministry of Jesus in the world today by virtue of baptism, it is our duty to continue to proclaim this good news. A recent Gallup study indicated that 70% of Americans say they are spiritual, but only about 15 to 20% attend a church, temple, or synagogue. This indicates the hunger within people for a sense of connection with God and their brothers and sisters. Let our churches be places of welcome where we continue the prophetic work of Christ as Isaiah has described it.

Call to action: Many people come to church in Advent, and especially at Christmas who we otherwise don’t see. Don’t let them slip through your fingers without trying to reach out to them! Have your GiveCentral GC Smart Tools ready! Pew cards, QR codes, texting number, bulletin inserts, posters, and greeters – have them ready for these important days. If you need more information or guidance on how to use these tools contact Teresa at teresa@givecentral.org, or Edgar at ebarroso@givecentral.com.

Pastoral Action Points

1. Stay ready (like the wise virgins in the parable) throughout this holiday season with your pew cards, texting numbers, emails, and direct mails. This busy season presents wonderful opportunities for welcoming and inviting people into your parish. Use your GC Smart Tools to stay on top of things!
   
2. Have some of your parishioners ready as greeters or “information booth” volunteers. Visitors need to feel welcome, and sometimes they just need to know where the restrooms and drinking fountains are! (Be sure to keep them clean and presentable throughout all the liturgies and concerts of this busy time.)
   
3. Many of your confirmation students are off from school during these weeks. They may need service hours as a part of their formation for confirmation. Don’t be afraid to ask them to help as greeters and welcomers during Christmas and New Years.
   
4. Sunday, December 31st is the Feast of the Holy Family. Start asking your families now to attend mass together that Sunday. Offer some family friendly activities. (Studies show that families who attend mass together, pray at meals together, and spiritually support each other are more likely to remain active in the faith than those that don’t!)

Last modified: August 9, 2024