Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, Archbishop of Newark, has issued a call to embrace the missionary vision of Pope Francis, urging all members of the Church to reach out to society's peripheries. Reflecting on his journey from priesthood to bishopric, Cardinal Tobin emphasizes that all Christians are called to be missionary disciples.

Pope Francis has consistently encouraged the Church to extend its mission beyond comfort zones and towards marginalized communities. In a recent newsletter, Cardinal Tobin elaborated on this directive: "Pope Francis is referring to those areas that contain people who are social outcasts, on the 'margins' of social acceptability." He stressed the importance of opening hearts to others, particularly those rejected by society.

Citing examples from the Gospels, Cardinal Tobin explained that individuals like Samaritans and lepers were considered peripheral in Jewish society. He underscored that reaching out with compassion does not mean abandoning one's beliefs but rather sharing God's love with everyone.

Cardinal Tobin highlighted the responsibility of baptized Catholics to address poverty and support those in need. "We must see, and not minimize or deny, the reality of poverty in our midst," he said. This involves making informed judgments about systems that perpetuate poverty and acting through prayer, advocacy, and generosity.

The 2023 Synod Synthesis Report outlines specific responsibilities for bishops in promoting pastoral care for vulnerable populations. It emphasizes co-responsibility with church members and humility in governance as essential qualities for effective missionary work.

Reflecting on Pope Francis's homily at Lampedusa, Cardinal Tobin warned against societal indifference: "We are a society which has forgotten how to weep." He urged vigilance against becoming indifferent to others' needs and emphasized carrying God's healing word to all who suffer.

Cardinal Tobin concluded by inviting prayers for grace in accepting roles as missionary disciples: "Please join me in praying for the grace to accept our roles as missionary disciples of Jesus Christ."

Sincerely yours in Christ the Redeemer,

Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R.

Archbishop of Newark