Al had always been a pillar of the parish. He was a man of tradition, a steadfast believer in the tried-and-true methods of Catholic education. Every year, he led the annual retreat, a meticulously planned event, every word scripted, every moment timed.
This year, however, Juan new speaker was introduced. Juan was not afraid to deviate from the tried and true script of years past. He challenged the retreatants to delve deeper into their faith, to question their assumptions, and to embrace a more personal relationship with Christ.
Al, uncomfortable with this departure from the familiar, felt a pang of irritation. Al grew increasingly restless. He interjected, his voice sharp, “Perhaps we should stick to the program.”
How does Juan’s deviation from “ a meticulously planned event, every word scripted, every moment timed,” in an attempt to foster metanoia among the group, line up with Chapter 5 of “The Joy of the Gospel?”
The leader’s presentation challenging the group to assess their own discipleship formation aligns perfectly with the message of “Evangelii Gaudium.” In fact, Chapter 5 lays the groundwork for this kind of self-reflection and ongoing conversion. Here’s how:
1. The Call to Ongoing Conversion:
- Pope Francis emphasizes that evangelization is not a one-time event, but a lifelong journey of growth and transformation. This requires a constant openness to the Holy Spirit and a willingness to be challenged and stretched in our faith.
- “I hope that all communities will devote the necessary effort to advancing along the path of a pastoral and missionary conversion which cannot leave things as they presently are.” (#26)
2. Interior Renewal:
- Chapter 5 emphasizes the importance of cultivating an “interior space” where we can encounter God and allow the Holy Spirit to work in our lives. This involves practices like prayer, Scripture reading, and Eucharistic Adoration, which help us to deepen our relationship with Jesus and grow in holiness.
- “What is needed is the ability to cultivate an interior space which can give a Christian meaning to commitment and activity.” (#262)
3. Humility and Docility:
- The chapter highlights the need for humility and docility in the life of a disciple. This means recognizing our dependence on God and being open to learning and growing in our faith. It also involves being willing to be challenged and corrected, even when it is uncomfortable.
- “…docility to the Spirit…makes us constantly attentive to ‘what the Spirit is saying to the churches.'” (#288)
4. Apostolic Zeal:
- “Evangelii Gaudium” calls for a renewed apostolic zeal, a burning desire to share the Gospel with others. This zeal is not simply about outward activity, but flows from a deep love for Jesus and a desire to see others come to know Him.
- “How I long to find the right words to stir up enthusiasm for a new chapter of evangelization full of fervour, joy, generosity, courage, boundless love and attraction!” (#261)
Connecting Juan’s Presentation to “Evangelii Gaudium”
Juan’s presentation, challenging the group to examine their own discipleship formation, is a concrete example of putting these principles into practice. By encouraging self-reflection and a commitment to ongoing conversion, Juan is helping the group to:
- Deepen their relationship with Jesus: This self-examination can lead to a greater awareness of their need for God and a deeper reliance on Jesus.
- Become more effective evangelizers: As they grow in intimacy with Jesus, they will be better equipped to share the Gospel with others, radiating joy and authenticity.
- Embrace a lifelong journey of faith: This presentation can inspire a commitment to ongoing faith formation, ensuring that their relationship with Jesus continues to grow and deepen throughout their lives.
In conclusion, Juan’s presentation is not only compatible with “Evangelii Gaudium,” but it actually embodies the spirit of the document. By challenging the group to assess their own discipleship formation, the Juan is helping them to embrace the call to ongoing conversion, cultivate a deeper interior life, and become more effective witnesses to the 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 calls all of us to share in his redemptive mission here on Earth. I would ask you to share this Scripture reflection 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 was assisted by AI in the drafting of this Post