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Church Emphasizes the Importance of Evangelization and Personal Holiness

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American Catholic Tribune Feb 1, 2024

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Rev. Dennis Marion Schnurr Bishop | Archdiocese of Cincinnati website

The Catholic Church has always been committed to spreading the Good News of Jesus Christ and forming Christian communities around the world. Pope Benedict XVI emphasized this mission during the opening of the 13th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops, stating, "The Church exists to evangelize." He reminded the faithful that Jesus commanded his disciples to "go and make disciples of all nations."

The Church's missionary nature calls for its members to actively share the message of salvation. Pope Benedict XVI highlighted the importance of living out one's faith and conforming daily to the teachings and example of Jesus. Quoting the pope, "A disciple is one who has heard the call of the Lord and responds to that call by choosing to conform his or her life to the teachings and example of Jesus."

The pope emphasized that evangelization is not simply a matter of repeating doctrine or quoting from a catechism. It requires disciples to attract others to follow Jesus through prayer, Scripture, and the Sacraments. He urged the faithful to evaluate whether the activities in their parishes support the mission of making and forming disciples. "Each of the services, programs, and events we run through our parish communities ought to have the goal of bringing people closer to Christ."

The Church's missionary impulse sets it apart from charitable organizations and social clubs. Its primary focus is to bring people to Jesus, to help them convert their hearts and minds to the Lord. The pope warned against losing sight of this mission and encouraged constant evaluation of parish endeavors.

While the Church as a whole works to fulfill its evangelizing mission, each individual's pursuit of holiness plays a crucial role. Pope Benedict XVI explained, "The more united each of us is to Christ, the greater the effects of His grace, including our witness to others." Personal holiness is not confined by cultural, social, political, or religious barriers. It transcends these boundaries and communicates the language of love and truth to all people of goodwill.

In conclusion, the Catholic Church reaffirms its commitment to evangelization and personal holiness. It recognizes that the Church's mission goes beyond its physical walls and requires the active participation of its members. By living out their faith, Catholics can attract others to follow Jesus and experience the joy of the Gospel. The Church calls on all individuals to dedicate themselves to the Great Commission of bringing others to know, love, and follow the Lord.

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