Evangelii Gaudium- Chap 2 Questions Answered - Its All About Love: Growing Intimacy with Jesus

Chapter 2 Discussion Questions Answered

Chap 2 Discussion Questions Answered

Pope Francis describes several “challenges to communal commitment” in our world today. Which of these challenges resonate most strongly with you, and how do you see them affecting your own relationship with Jesus and your community?

Answer: Pope Francis identifies a range of challenges that hinder our ability to build strong communities and live out the Gospel message in a spirit of love and solidarity. Here are some of the key challenges he highlights:

Globalization and the erosion of local cultures: The interconnectedness of the modern world can sometimes lead to the loss of unique local traditions and identities, creating a sense of rootlessness and disconnection.
Growing individualism and the breakdown of community: A focus on personal achievement and self-reliance can erode the bonds of community and lead to a lack of concern for the common good.
Urbanization and the challenges of city life: The anonymity and fast-paced nature of urban life can make it difficult to form deep and meaningful relationships.
Inequalities and social exclusion: The widening gap between rich and poor creates divisions within society and marginalizes those who are most vulnerable.
The throwaway culture and the disregard for human dignity: A consumerist mindset can lead to the objectification of people and a disregard for the inherent dignity of every human life.
The digital world and its impact on relationships: While technology can connect us in many ways, it can also lead to superficial relationships and a sense of isolation.
Migration and the plight of refugees: Forced displacement due to conflict and poverty creates immense suffering and challenges our capacity for compassion and hospitality.
Social unrest and violence: Conflict and violence tear at the fabric of society and hinder the pursuit of peace and reconciliation.
Environmental degradation: Our disregard for the environment threatens the planet and future generations, highlighting our interconnectedness and responsibility for creation.

Which Challenge Resonates Most Strongly?

While all of these challenges are significant, the one that resonates most strongly with me personally is the growing individualism and the breakdown of community. In a society that often prioritizes personal achievement and self-reliance, it can be easy to lose sight of the importance of connection, empathy, and shared responsibility.

How Does This Affect My Relationship with Jesus and My Community?

This challenge affects my relationship with Jesus by tempting me to focus on my own spiritual growth and well-being at the expense of serving others. It can lead to a sense of complacency and a lack of concern for the needs of those around me.

In terms of my community, this challenge can manifest as a lack of engagement and participation. It can be easy to become isolated and disconnected, failing to contribute my gifts and talents to the building up of the community.

Overcoming the Challenge

To overcome this challenge, I strive to:

Prioritize relationships: Make time for meaningful interactions with others, both within and outside of my faith community.
Practice empathy and compassion: Seek to understand the perspectives and needs of others, especially those who are different from me.
Serve others: Look for opportunities to use my gifts and talents to serve my community and contribute to the common good.
Cultivate gratitude: Focus on the blessings in my life and the ways in which I am supported by others.
Pray for guidance: Ask God to help me overcome my individualistic tendencies and to open my heart to the needs of others.

By actively working against the forces of individualism, I can deepen my relationship with Jesus and contribute to building a stronger and more loving community.

2. How does the “throwaway culture” that Pope Francis describes contradict the Gospel message of love and dignity? How can you actively combat this culture in your own life and choices?

Answer: “Joy of the Gospel” tackles the “throwaway culture” head-on, showing how it clashes with the Gospel’s core message:

1. Contradiction with Love and Dignity:

Objectification and Exploitation: The throwaway culture reduces people to objects, valuing them for their usefulness or productivity. This contradicts the Gospel, which proclaims that every person is created in God’s image and possesses inherent dignity, regardless of their abilities or contributions.
Indifference and Exclusion: This mindset fosters indifference towards those deemed “unproductive” or “burdensome,” leading to their exclusion and marginalization. The Gospel, on the other hand, calls us to love our neighbor as ourselves, especially the vulnerable and marginalized.
Consumerism and Waste: A focus on acquiring and discarding goods promotes a culture of waste, where both material goods and human relationships are treated as disposable. This clashes with the Gospel’s call to stewardship and care for creation.

2. Combating the Throwaway Culture:

The document encourages a shift in mindset and action to counteract this harmful trend:

Shifting from “Use” to “Love”: Instead of valuing people for their usefulness, we must recognize their inherent worth and treat them with love and respect, regardless of their circumstances.
Embracing Solidarity and Inclusion: Reach out to those marginalized by society, offering support, friendship, and a sense of belonging. Advocate for policies that promote justice and equality for all.
Practicing Responsible Consumption: Make conscious choices about what you buy and how you use resources. Avoid excessive consumption and waste, opting for sustainable and ethical practices.
Cultivating a Culture of Encounter: Foster genuine relationships built on empathy and understanding. Resist the temptation to judge or dismiss others based on superficial criteria.

In essence, “Joy of the Gospel” calls us to challenge the throwaway culture by living out the Gospel values of love, compassion, and solidarity. By making choices that reflect these values, we can contribute to a more just and humane society, one that honors the dignity of every person.

3. In what ways can the digital world both help and hinder our relationship with Jesus and with others? How can you use technology intentionally to foster genuine connection and spiritual growth?

Answer: “Joy of the Gospel” doesn’t explicitly mention the internet or social media, as it was written in 2013 when the digital landscape was different. However, it addresses the broader issue of technology and its impact on relationships, which can be applied to our current digital world.

Here’s how the document helps answer your question:

Hinderances:

Distraction and Superficiality: The document warns against the potential for technology to create “a state of constant distraction, disunity and superficiality” (paragraph 62). This is even more relevant today with the constant barrage of notifications and information vying for our attention. Social media can foster superficial connections, making it harder to cultivate deep, meaningful relationships with Jesus and others.
Consumerism and Individualism: The document critiques the “throwaway culture” that objectifies people and promotes consumerism (paragraphs 55-59). The digital world often reinforces these tendencies, bombarding us with advertisements and promoting a self-centered worldview. This can hinder our relationship with Jesus, who calls us to prioritize love and service over material possessions and self-promotion.
Erosion of Community: The document highlights the breakdown of community and the rise of individualism (paragraphs 47-49). While the digital world can connect us globally, it can also isolate us from our local communities and hinder face-to-face interactions. This can make it harder to experience the support and encouragement of a faith community, which is essential for spiritual growth.

Helpful Aspects:

Access to Information and Resources: While not explicitly mentioned in the document, the internet provides unprecedented access to Scripture, theological resources, and online communities that can support our faith journey. This can be particularly helpful for those who may not have access to physical churches or Christian communities.
Communication and Connection: Technology can facilitate communication with loved ones and faith communities, especially those who are geographically distant. It can also help us connect with people from diverse backgrounds and engage in meaningful conversations about faith.

Using Technology Intentionally:

While the document doesn’t offer specific advice on using technology, its message encourages us to be mindful and intentional in our digital engagement. Here are some ways to use technology to foster genuine connection and spiritual growth:

Prioritize Face-to-Face Interactions: Use technology to supplement, not replace, in-person relationships. Make time for meaningful conversations with loved ones and actively participate in your faith community.
Limit Distractions: Set boundaries with technology to create space for prayer, reflection, and spiritual practices. Turn off notifications, set aside dedicated time for device-free activities, and be mindful of how you spend your time online.
Cultivate Meaningful Connections: Use social media to connect with others on a deeper level, engage in thoughtful discussions about faith, and support each other’s spiritual journeys.
Seek Quality Content: Be discerning about the content you consume online. Seek out resources that inspire, challenge, and encourage you in your faith.
Use Technology for Good: Use your online presence to share your faith, support causes you believe in, and be a positive influence in the digital world.

By being mindful of the potential pitfalls and harnessing the positive aspects of technology, we can use the digital world to deepen our relationship with Jesus and foster genuine connection with others.

4. Pope Francis emphasizes the importance of encounter and dialogue. How can you create more opportunities for meaningful conversations with people who hold different beliefs or perspectives? How might these encounters strengthen your own faith?

Answer: “Joy of the Gospel” doesn’t provide a concrete list of actions for creating dialogue with people of different beliefs. However, it lays a strong foundation for how to approach such encounters, which can then be translated into practical steps. Here’s how the document answers your question:

1. Cultivating an Attitude of Encounter:

Emphasis on going out: The document repeatedly calls for a Church that “goes forth” (20, 21), engaging with the world rather than remaining closed off. This outward focus is essential for encountering those of different beliefs.
Seeing the other: Pope Francis emphasizes the importance of truly seeing the other person, recognizing their inherent dignity (61). This requires overcoming prejudices and preconceptions.
Openness to being surprised: The Pope highlights the need for humility, acknowledging that we can learn from others (295). This openness allows us to be surprised by what we might discover in dialogue.

2. Engaging in Authentic Dialogue:

Listening with respect: “Joy of the Gospel” stresses the importance of listening attentively to others (171). This involves genuine curiosity and a willingness to understand their perspectives.
Speaking with love: The document emphasizes communicating with love and respect, even when disagreeing (198). This creates a safe space for honest dialogue.
Seeking common ground: While acknowledging differences, Pope Francis encourages seeking areas of agreement and shared values (229). This can be a starting point for building bridges.

3. Strengthening Faith Through Encounter:

Deepening understanding: Engaging with diverse perspectives can challenge our own assumptions and deepen our understanding of our faith (40).
Growing in compassion: Encountering others can broaden our horizons and increase our compassion for those who are different (272).
Discovering new ways to witness: Dialogue can help us find new and creative ways to share our faith with others (127).

Practical Steps Inspired by the Document:

Join interfaith initiatives: Seek out opportunities in your community for interfaith dialogue or service projects.
Engage in respectful online conversations: Participate in online forums or social media discussions with people of different beliefs, maintaining a respectful tone.
Read books or watch documentaries: Explore perspectives different from your own through books, films, or other media.
Be open to conversations in everyday life: Engage in conversations with colleagues, neighbors, or acquaintances who hold different beliefs, demonstrating genuine interest.

By putting these principles into practice, you can create more opportunities for meaningful conversations with people of different beliefs. These encounters can challenge your assumptions, broaden your understanding, and ultimately strengthen your own faith by deepening your commitment to the Gospel values of love, compassion, and dialogue.

5. What role does your family (or chosen family) play in your faith journey? How can you cultivate stronger relationships within your family that support and encourage spiritual growth?

Answer: “Joy of the Gospel” doesn’t explicitly answer the question in those exact terms, but it provides strong guidance on the role of family in faith and how to nurture spiritual growth within family relationships. Here’s how the document addresses those points:

The Role of Family in Faith:

Foundational for Society: Pope Francis sees the family as the “fundamental cell of society” (paragraph 85). It’s where we first encounter love, learn values, and develop our sense of identity. This foundation is crucial for a strong faith life.
School of Faith: The family is the “domestic church” where faith is first nurtured and passed on (paragraph 85). Parents and family members play a vital role in introducing children to Jesus, teaching them to pray, and modeling Christian values.
Source of Support: Families provide love, support, and encouragement, which are essential for navigating the challenges of life and growing in faith. Strong family bonds create a safe haven where individuals can feel loved and accepted, fostering a deeper relationship with God.

Cultivating Stronger Relationships for Spiritual Growth:

Dialogue and Encounter: The document emphasizes the importance of dialogue and encounter for building strong relationships. Within families, this means creating space for open and honest communication, listening to each other, and sharing experiences.
Forgiveness and Reconciliation: Pope Francis acknowledges that families aren’t perfect and that conflict is inevitable. He stresses the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation for healing wounds and strengthening bonds.
Shared Prayer and Faith Practices: Praying together, attending Mass as a family, and engaging in other faith practices can deepen spiritual bonds and create a shared sense of purpose.
Witnessing to Faith: Family members can inspire and encourage each other in their faith journey by sharing their experiences, struggles, and joys. Parents can be powerful role models for their children by living out their faith authentically.
Creating a Culture of Love: Families should strive to be places where love, compassion, and service are practiced daily. This creates an environment where faith can flourish and individuals can grow closer to Jesus.

In essence, “Joy of the Gospel” suggests that:

Family is where faith takes root and is nurtured.
Strong family bonds provide the support and encouragement needed for spiritual growth.
Intentional practices like dialogue, forgiveness, shared prayer, and witnessing to faith can cultivate stronger relationships and foster a deeper connection with Jesus within the family unit.

By reflecting on these points and putting them into practice, families can become powerful sources of spiritual growth and support, helping each member deepen their relationship with Jesus.

6. How can you become more involved in your local parish or faith community? What gifts can you share, and how can you contribute to building a more welcoming and supportive community for others?

Answer: While “Joy of the Gospel” doesn’t offer a concrete list of actions for parish involvement, it provides principles and insights that guide us toward active participation:

1. Recognize the Value of Community:

The document emphasizes the vital role of Christian community in faith life. It’s where we encounter Christ, receive support, and grow in our discipleship. This recognition motivates us to seek active involvement in our parish.

2. Identify and Share Your Gifts:

“Joy of the Gospel” highlights the diversity of gifts within the Church. It encourages us to discern our unique talents and offer them in service to the community. This might involve teaching, music, hospitality, administration, or acts of charity.

3. Participate in the Sacraments and Liturgy:

The document stresses the importance of the sacraments and liturgical celebrations in nourishing our faith. Active participation in Mass, Reconciliation, and other sacraments strengthens our connection to Christ and the community.

4. Engage in Dialogue and Encounter:

“Joy of the Gospel” calls for open and respectful dialogue within the Church and with those outside of it. By actively listening, sharing our perspectives, and building relationships, we contribute to a more welcoming and inclusive community.

5. Practice Hospitality and Welcome:

Pope Francis emphasizes the importance of welcoming all people, especially those who are marginalized or feel excluded. We can contribute to a welcoming community by reaching out to newcomers, offering support to those in need, and fostering a spirit of inclusion.

6. Be a Missionary Disciple:

The document calls all Christians to be missionary disciples, sharing the joy of the Gospel with others. Within our parish, this can involve inviting others to participate, sharing our faith experiences, and supporting evangelization efforts.

7. Work for Justice and the Common Good:

“Joy of the Gospel” challenges us to address social injustices and work towards a more just and equitable society. This can involve participating in parish social justice initiatives, advocating for the marginalized, and promoting the common good in our communities.

8. Be Open to the Holy Spirit:

The document emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding and animating the Church. By being open to the Spirit’s promptings, we can discern how best to serve our parish community and contribute to its growth and vitality.

In essence, “Joy of the Gospel” calls us to be active and engaged members of our parish community, offering our gifts, participating in the sacramental life, and working together to build a more welcoming and supportive environment for all.

7. Pope Francis calls us to be missionary disciples. How can you share the joy of the Gospel with others in your daily life? What steps can you take to become a more confident and joyful witness to Christ?

Answer: The document provides a multifaceted answer to the question of how to share the joy of the Gospel and become a more confident and joyful witness to Christ. Here are some key points, drawing from various sections of Chapter 2:

1. Live authentically:

The most effective way to share the Gospel is by living it out authentically in your daily life. This means striving to embody the values of the Gospel, such as love, compassion, forgiveness, and service, in your interactions with others.
Your life itself becomes a witness when you radiate joy, hope, and peace, even in the midst of challenges.

2. Embrace encounter and dialogue:

Actively seek opportunities for meaningful conversations with others, even those who hold different beliefs or perspectives [76-79].
Be open to sharing your faith journey and listening to the experiences of others. These encounters can deepen your own faith and create bridges of understanding.

3. Be a witness in word and deed:

Don’t be afraid to speak about your faith and share your experiences of encountering Christ with others [89-92].
Look for opportunities to serve others in your community and beyond, putting your faith into action [93-95].
Your actions, when motivated by love and compassion, can be a powerful witness to the transforming power of the Gospel.

4. Cultivate a joyful spirit:

Nurture a deep and abiding joy in your relationship with Christ. This joy will be contagious and will attract others to the source of your hope [110-111].
Celebrate the small victories in your faith journey and in your efforts to share the Gospel. This will help you to stay motivated and joyful.

5. Ground yourself in prayer and the sacraments:

A strong foundation in prayer and the sacraments will nourish your relationship with Christ and empower you to be a more confident witness [106-109].
Seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit in your efforts to share the Gospel. The Spirit will give you the words and the courage you need.

6. Find strength in community:

Surround yourself with other believers who can support and encourage you in your faith journey [89-92].
Participate in the life of your parish or faith community, sharing your gifts and talents with others.

7. Be patient and persistent:

Sharing the Gospel is a lifelong journey, not a one-time event. Be patient with yourself and with others, recognizing that spiritual growth takes time [112-113].
Don’t be discouraged by setbacks or indifference. Persevere in your efforts to share the joy of the Gospel, trusting in the power of the Holy Spirit.

8. Be open to the promptings of the Holy Spirit:

The Holy Spirit can work in surprising and unexpected ways. Be open to the Spirit’s guidance and promptings as you seek to share the Gospel with others [99-101].
The Spirit can empower you to be a bold and joyful witness, even in challenging situations.

By taking these points to heart, you can become a more confident and joyful missionary disciple, sharing the love of Christ with others in your daily life and contributing to the Church’s mission of evangelization.

8. How does your understanding of the Holy Spirit influence your prayer life and your relationship with Jesus? How can you be more open to the guidance and promptings of the Spirit in your life?

Answer: While “Joy of the Gospel” doesn’t explicitly address the Holy Spirit’s role in prayer in Chapter 2, we can extrapolate from its broader message and connect it to other Church teachings to answer your question:

How Your Understanding of the Holy Spirit Influences Prayer and Your Relationship with Jesus:

The Spirit as Advocate and Guide: The Holy Spirit is our advocate and guide in prayer (Romans 8:26-27). Understanding this allows us to approach prayer with confidence, knowing that even when we struggle to find the words, the Spirit intercedes for us according to God’s will. This fosters a deeper sense of trust and intimacy with Jesus, knowing that the Spirit helps us communicate with the Father.
The Spirit as Source of Transformation: The Spirit empowers us to live out the Gospel and become more like Christ (Galatians 5:22-23). Recognizing this encourages us to pray for the fruits of the Spirit – love, joy, peace, patience, etc. – and to seek the Spirit’s guidance in becoming more Christ-like in our thoughts, words, and actions. This active participation in our transformation deepens our relationship with Jesus.
The Spirit as Revealer of Truth: The Spirit illuminates the Scriptures and helps us understand God’s Word (John 14:26). When we approach Scripture with an openness to the Spirit, we allow it to speak to our hearts and draw us closer to Jesus. This deepens our understanding of his teachings and his love for us.

How to Be More Open to the Spirit:

Cultivate Silence and Stillness: Create space in your life for quiet reflection and listening to the Spirit’s gentle promptings. This might involve setting aside dedicated time for prayer and meditation, or simply being more attentive to moments of stillness throughout the day.
Practice Discernment: Pay attention to your thoughts, feelings, and desires. Ask yourself if they are aligned with the values of the Gospel and if they lead you towards greater love and service. The Spirit often speaks through our conscience and intuition.
Be Open to New Experiences: Step outside your comfort zone and be willing to try new things that might stretch your faith. The Spirit can lead us in unexpected directions, and openness to new experiences allows us to follow where the Spirit leads.
Live in Community: Surround yourself with other believers who can support you in your spiritual journey and help you discern the Spirit’s voice. Sharing your experiences and praying with others can strengthen your sensitivity to the Spirit’s guidance.

By actively seeking the Holy Spirit’s presence in your life and cultivating an attitude of openness and receptivity, you can deepen your relationship with Jesus and experience the transformative power of God’s grace.

9. In what ways do you feel called to live a “counter-cultural” life as a Christian? What challenges and opportunities do you see in striving for holiness in today’s world?

Answer: “Joy of the Gospel” doesn’t explicitly list ways to live “counter-culturally,” but it strongly implies that aligning oneself with Christ necessitates a life that often runs against the grain of the dominant culture. Here’s how the document addresses this question:

Ways to Live Counter-Culturally:

Rejecting the “Throwaway Culture” (55-59): Pope Francis condemns the prevailing mentality that treats people as objects to be used and discarded. He calls Christians to uphold the dignity of every human life, especially the vulnerable and marginalized. This means rejecting consumerism, opposing exploitation, and actively caring for those in need.
Prioritizing Authentic Relationships (47-49, 60-62): In a world obsessed with individualism and superficial online connections, Christians are called to prioritize authentic relationships grounded in love and genuine encounter. This involves investing time in face-to-face interactions, building community, and fostering deep connections with others.
Embracing Simplicity and Solidarity (52-54): The document challenges the pursuit of wealth and material possessions, urging Christians to embrace simplicity and share their resources with those in need. This involves living with less, practicing generosity, and working towards a more just and equitable society.
Seeking Truth and Meaning Beyond Consumerism (96-98): Pope Francis encourages Christians to seek true fulfillment and meaning in the Gospel, rather than in the fleeting pleasures of consumerism and materialism. This involves cultivating a deep spiritual life, seeking wisdom in Scripture and tradition, and finding joy in serving others.
Promoting Peace and Reconciliation (68-70): In a world marked by conflict and violence, Christians are called to be peacemakers and agents of reconciliation. This involves rejecting violence, promoting forgiveness, and working towards justice and peace in our communities and the world.
Caring for Creation (71-75): The document emphasizes the interconnectedness of all creation and calls Christians to be responsible stewards of the environment. This involves respecting nature, advocating for sustainable practices, and protecting the planet for future generations.

Challenges in Striving for Holiness:

Social Pressure: The dominant culture often promotes values that directly contradict Gospel values. Christians may face pressure to conform to societal norms, prioritize material success, or embrace a relativistic worldview.
Temptation: The world offers many temptations that can distract us from our pursuit of holiness. We may be tempted by materialism, consumerism, individualism, or the pursuit of power and pleasure.
Discouragement: The challenges of living a counter-cultural life can be discouraging. We may feel isolated, misunderstood, or even persecuted for our beliefs.

Opportunities in Striving for Holiness:

Witness: Living a counter-cultural life can be a powerful witness to the transformative power of the Gospel. Our actions can speak louder than words and attract others to Christ.
Transformation: Striving for holiness leads to personal transformation and growth. As we align our lives with Christ, we experience greater peace, joy, and fulfillment.
Impact: By living counter-culturally, Christians can have a positive impact on the world. We can contribute to building a more just, compassionate, and sustainable society.

In essence, “Joy of the Gospel” calls Christians to be a sign of contradiction in the world, living out the values of the Kingdom of God even when they clash with the prevailing culture. This involves embracing a life of simplicity, service, and solidarity, while actively working for justice, peace, and the care of creation. While this path presents challenges, it also offers opportunities for personal growth, powerful witness, and positive change in the world.

10. Pope Francis reminds us that the Gospel offers a message of hope, even in the face of challenges. How can you cultivate a deeper sense of hope in your own life, and how can you share this hope with others who may be struggling?

Answer: “Joy of the Gospel” doesn’t explicitly address this question in one specific section, but its overall message provides a framework for cultivating and sharing hope:

Cultivating Hope:

Remember the Source: The document repeatedly emphasizes that true hope is rooted in the Gospel and in an encounter with Jesus Christ. To cultivate hope, prioritize your relationship with Him through prayer, Scripture, and the sacraments. This connection is the foundation for enduring hope, even amidst trials.
Recognize the Spirit’s Work: The document highlights the role of the Holy Spirit in empowering and guiding Christians. Be open to the Spirit’s work in your life, allowing it to inspire hope and guide you towards actions that reflect God’s love and purpose.
Embrace Community: Chapter 2 underscores the importance of community. Surround yourself with fellow believers who can offer support, encouragement, and accountability. Sharing your struggles and celebrating victories with others strengthens hope and resilience.
Focus on the Positive: While acknowledging the challenges of the world, “Joy of the Gospel” also encourages a focus on the positive. Look for signs of God’s grace and the work of the Holy Spirit in your life and in the world around you. This helps cultivate a hopeful outlook even in difficult times.
Live Counter-Culturally: Choosing to live according to Gospel values, even when they go against the grain of society, can be a source of hope. This witness to Christ’s love can inspire positive change and offer a glimpse of the Kingdom of God.

Sharing Hope:

Be a Witness: Your own life can be a source of hope for others. By living authentically as a Christian and sharing your faith journey, you demonstrate the transformative power of the Gospel.
Offer Compassion: Reach out to those who are struggling, offering a listening ear, empathy, and practical support. Your presence and compassion can be a powerful source of hope for someone in need.
Share the Good News: Don’t be afraid to share the message of the Gospel with others. This message of salvation, forgiveness, and new life offers hope to a world searching for meaning and purpose.
Work for Justice: Engage in actions that promote justice and address the root causes of suffering and despair. By working towards a more just and compassionate world, you offer concrete hope for a better future.
Pray for Others: Lift up those who are struggling in prayer, asking God to bring them comfort, strength, and hope. Your prayers can be a powerful source of support and encouragement.

By actively cultivating hope in your own life and sharing it with others, you participate in the mission of evangelization outlined in “Joy of the Gospel,” bringing the light of Christ to a world in need.

Joy of The Gospel

Sharing

Jesus last words on Earth were to his disciples, can be found in Matthew Chap 28 when Jesus told his disciples,”Then Jesus approached and said to them, “All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 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 have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.”

Jesus ascends to heaven the apostles watch

Jesus calls all of us to share in his redemptive mission here on Earth. I would ask you to share these posts with your family, your friends and your acquaintances, and then share it with a couple of individuals that you may may not be comfortable sharing with, keeping in mind always the words of Jesus, And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age

Author utilized AI in the preparation of this post.