Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year A)
Ex 19.2-6;
Ps 99;
Rom 5.6-11;
Mt 9.36-10.8
The church of Christ and its apostolic foundation
During the recitation of the creed at Mass, we reaffirm our belief in one, holy, Catholic, and apostolic Church. To understand what it means to be an apostolic Church, we can refer, in part, to today’s Gospel reading. It begins by describing how Jesus summoned His twelve disciples. The original term ‘church’ comes from the Greek ‘ekklesia,’ meaning a ‘called together’ assembly. As such, the term ‘church’ can be viewed as a ‘convocation’ or an ‘assembly’ of those whom the Lord has summoned to Himself.
Additionally, the Gospel suggests that after calling His disciples, Jesus sent them out to preach and heal, thereby proclaiming the Gospel. This aligns with the meaning of ‘apostolic,’ which emphasizes being sent forth. In Latin, this concept is closely related to the term ‘missionary,’ highlighting the Church’s core purpose: to actively carry on Christ’s presence in the world, primarily through sharing the Gospel. This calling involves being dispatched into the world, embodying the very essence of being apostolic.
Our profession of faith serves as a declaration of doctrinal belief, reaffirming our wholehearted acceptance of fundamental Catholic teachings. Yet, authentic faith, as demonstrated through the Gospels, naturally inspires action. God's love is evidenced by His sending His Son as our Savior and through the ongoing outpouring of the Holy Spirit by the Father and Son. This enables us to live according to Christian principles. Therefore, when we profess belief in the apostolic Church, our actions should reflect this commitment through our response to His call and our willingness to serve as missionaries.
It is important to continually reflect on ways to deepen our response to the Lord’s call, including prayer, devotion, adherence to Church teachings, study of the Gospels, and service to others. Such practices should renew our sense of mission. Furthermore, actively sharing our faith with others often enhances our devotion to Our Lord. Today’s focus remains on fulfilling the second aspect of our vocation: that of missionaries.
Historically, Our Lord sent the apostles, along with seventy others, to prepare the way for His ministry. The imagery of sowing seeds, used by Jesus, remains relevant today. Preparation involves cultivating an environment conducive to faith taking root. After sowing the seed, it requires suitable conditions for germination. As those who sow faith, we are called to prepare the spiritual soil and work in harmony with natural processes to ensure faith can flourish.
The idea of ‘converting’ individuals is often misunderstood; in truth, it is Our Lord who accomplishes conversion. When individuals turn away from their previous ways and align themselves with Christ, this process is one of conversion. The Holy Spirit prepares individuals to encounter Our Lord through the Church and us. Our mission involves guiding others toward the moment of meeting Christ, exemplifying a true Christian life, explaining Church teachings, and leading them toward sources that can nurture their relationship with Our Lord.
Another vital aspect of our mission involves Catholic social action, which forms an integral part of our broader calling. While its primary objective is to serve Christ by assisting the poor, homeless, abandoned, and fearful, it also offers an opportunity for evangelization. Engaging in charitable activities—such as those undertaken by the Society of St Vincent de Paul or Catholic relief organizations—serves as a form of mission. Many parishes host social groups that foster community and may serve as initial points of contact for those exploring faith, as do international relief agencies.
On a personal level, individual mission remains significant. Many of us encounter non-Catholics daily. There is evident interest, alongside a lack of understanding of the Catholic faith and Our Lord. It is common to meet children in schools who have never heard of Jesus or who do not recognize figures on crosses they wear. Striking a balance between silence and speech is crucial; when appropriate, sharing information about the faith, clarifying misconceptions, or simply pointing others toward Our Lord can serve as a form of mission. Our words and actions may introduce non-believers to Christ and His Church, often for the first time.
Finally, Catholics hold that the most profound encounter with Our Lord takes place during the Mass. Here, individuals hear His words, reflect on the faith through the homily, and experience the spirit of prayer and worship. The Mass embodies mystery and beauty through music and silence, drawing seekers to Christ. While it is helpful to explain the Mass to newcomers in advance, bringing them to participate in the celebration remains a vital expression of our mission.
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