Sunday May 19, 2024
Pentecost, “… and They Were All Filled with the Holy Spirit.”
The painting of Pentecost by El Greco shows the fire of the Holy Spirit resting upon each of the disciples. I encounter the Spirit of the Risen Lord through the inspiration I find in so many of you! Nearly one hundred youth were confirmed May 17th, empowered by the Holy Spirit to give bold witness to Jesus and share the gospel. We truly live by the Spirit that permeates and unites our community, sustaining us in ministry and filling us with joy, forming us to be missionary disciples. Saint Joachim’s mission statement reads, “We are a church were people encounter Jesus Christ and grow as missionary disciples.”
Missionary discipleship takes place within the context of evangelization and begins with an encounter with Christ. We look to Jesus, the Master who personally formed his apostles and disciples, as the model of evangelization. Christ gives us the method: “Come and see” (Jn 1:46), “Follow me” (Mt 9:9), “Remain in me” (Jn 15:4) and “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all the nations” (Mt. 28:19). The method includes encounter, accompaniment, community, and sending. This method is formation for missionary discipleship. It leads us, believers, to become disciples and from there to become missionaries.
Our Parish Pastoral Council were on retreat in April and are preparing for our first meeting at the end of May. We compiled a group resume and are reflecting on just what it means to be a missionary disciple. I was amazed that every one of our council members has been devoted to helping others become the best they can be through either teaching, coaching or advocating for others. Please pray that they will be guided by the Spirit as they, with me, discern our parish pastoral priorities. I encourage you to share your hopes for our parish with them.
In Christ,
Rev. Robert P. Capone