P R A Y I N G W I T H T H E C H U R C H
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INTENTION : |
That Catechists may be sustained by the prayers and collaboration of parish communities for the successful accomplishment of the new evangelisation.
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The renewal of catechesis becomes the central focus of the Church this month. Since the publication of the Catechism of the Catholic Church and the General Directory of Catechesis the Holy Father reminds the faithful to re-commit themselves with renewed zeal to proclaiming the Gospel message. He presents the figure of John the Baptist as a model to examine the mission entrusted to us by the Church.
The opportunities for indirect and direct proclamation of the Gospel message is readily available at our door-step in our multiethnic and multi-religious society much like John the Baptist "who went into all the country around the Jordan, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins" (Lk. 3:3). Similarly, St Paul sensing the urgency of the missionary mandate exclaimed: "Woe to me if I do not preach the Gospel" (1 Cor. 9:16).
The Holy Father reminds parish priests to be diligent in their efforts at training catechists. Experience teaches that the quality of catechetical activity largely depends on the caring and affectionate pastoral presence of priests. He implores priests to be close to them and accompany them in the service of the Church. He reminds us that this is the Church's mission; this is our mission.
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