Evangelization

Evangelization

He summoned the Twelve and began to send them out two by two… Mark 6:7

When we Catholics hear the word Evangelization we often think of Jehova Witnesses, or other denomination, going door-to-door and asking “are you saved?” We say to ourselves “We don’t do that! We go to Mass not door-to-door!” What do you think of when you hear the word evangelization? Do you think it is for Protestants only? How do you evangelize and spread the faith?

Today’s Gospel from Mark shows us the birth of evangelization- Jesus summoned the twelve and sent them out into the world to proclaim the Gospel and spread the faith. When we are baptized in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit we are given the same mission… to go out and not only to live the Gospel but to also to proclaim and spread the Good News. Every week, especially in the summer, we look around at Mass, shake our heads and wonder where all the people have gone. Have you ever tried inviting someone in to your faith (or back to the faith if lapsed)?

Jesus suggests that we go out and talk with people and share our faith with them. We do not have to be annoying or “in-your-face” but we can be subtle. Evangelization can happen in many different ways—sharing faith over a cup of coffee, praying with an ill friend or loved one, inviting a lapsed Catholic back to the Faith. Don’t be afraid to share your love of Father, Son and Holy Spirit. If someone doesn’t want to hear the message, say a prayer and, as Jesus tells us, “shake the dust off your feet” and move on. Jesus is walking with us but he needs our hands and our voice to carry on with His mission.

Today, after Mass, give some thought to how you will live out the Gospel and how you will share your joy in your love of the faith. Begin with looking inside your heart and asking Jesus to be your guide…

God bless, Holly Clark