Disciples and missionaries

In May of 2007, the bishops of all America met in Aparecida (the shrine of Our Lady in Brazil) to reflect on the calls from Christ to the Church in the continent. Other meetings of this same type-that somehow revolutionized the ministry in the continent-had taken place in Medellín, Puebla, and Santo Domingo. The final document, which marks the direction of the ministry in all America, is centered on the strong call to all Christians to be disciples and missionaries. In the months that follow we will study, on a step-by-step basis, the different challenges that it entails and how we will respond to the questions it presents.

Initially let us remember the words of Pope Benedict XVI in his inaugural speech on the central subject of the conference, “Disciples and missionaries.”

“The Church has the great task of also guarding and nurturing the faith of the people of God and of remembering the faithful of this continent who by virtue of their baptism are called to be disciples and missionaries of Jesus Christ. This entails following Christ, living with Him in intimacy, imitating his example, and giving testimony.

Everyone who has been baptized receives from Christ, like the apostles, the mandate of the mission: “Go throughout the world and preach the gospel to all people…” (Mark 16:15) Because to be a disciple and missionary of Jesus Christ and seek the life in Him means to be deeply fully deeply rooted in Him.

Your turn
What does it mean for you to be deeply rooted in Jesus Christ? Do you feel like a disciple? A disciple is one who learns from another, from a teacher. What things do you think you can learn from Jesus? Which of the lessons from Jesus do you think you practice or you try to practice?