We are called to be Pauline missionaries of faith and joy

As we have begun the Year of Faith, we have an opportunity to rediscover our faith in the cross and the joy in the resurrection. We will celebrate on October 21, 2012 the 86^th World Mission Sunday, our annual celebration for Catholics in the world to celebrate our universal faith in Christ and our call to support the missionary activity of the church that sends ambassadors of faith and joy to the ends of the earth.

The good news is that God is for us and God is with us in all circumstances. It is our joy to experience the way that Christ brings life out of death. The life, death and resurrection of Jesus reveals God’s plan for transforming the world.

We are sent forth into the world witnessing to God’s presence among us. As the Body of Christ, we are each given a share in the good news of Jesus that makes us new and makes us one. Realizing this blessed assurance we have in Jesus can also bring us faith and joy.

World Mission Sunday connects us to what God is doing in the hearts and minds of people all over the world. We support those who go forth to bring this message of God’s goodness and faithfulness. They carry with them the joy that comes from knowing God’s will to bring life out of death. It remains the greatest work of the church.

As Scripture says, “How lovely are the feet of those who bring good news” (Romans 10:15). May we, Pauline missionaries, each find joy in our faith and share it to all those around us!