When I was a young man considering the call to priesthood, I did consider entering the Maryknoll Fathers in order to serve as an American priest doing missionary ministry somewhere in the world. They serve mainly in Asia, Africa and South America. The lure of going off to an exotic new place and to bring the message of Jesus Christ was quite powerful; however, after researching and reflecting with some wise folks, I decided my call was to stay here in southern California and try to bring the message of Jesus and His Church in my own back yard. The initial desire to be a missionary came from my home parish of St. Cecilia in Tustin where our pastor constantly reminded all of us that the Catholic Church is missionary in nature. We are not about just ourselves; rather, all Catholics must also look outward to the broader scene of the world and to pray for and support the missionary activity of the Church.

World Mission Sunday is just that opportunity each year. Yes, there is a special collection for The Society of the Propagation of the Faith (located in Rome and which directs so much of the missionary work worldwide); but also a time to pray for our brothers and sisters in far off places who might not yet know what we know: Jesus Christ is Lord! Not only do we know that truth…..but we profess it in the way we live in the midst of our own society and culture.  And our faith give us hope; and hope gives us the courage to live each day in gratitude.

We listen to the words of Isaiah today: “I am the Lord, and there is no other, there is no God but me. It is I who arm you, so that toward the rising and the setting of the sun, people may know that there is no other God but me.” (Isaiah 45:6)

Let’s expand our understanding of what it means to be Catholic: it means to be a Missionary!

Lord God,

as the election approaches,

we seek to better understand the issues and concerns that confront our city, our state, and our country, and how the Gospel compels us to respond as faithful citizens in our community.

We ask for eyes that are free from blindness so that we might see each other as brothers and sisters, one and equal in dignity, especially those who are victims of abuse and violence, deceit and poverty.

We ask for ears that will hear the cries of children unborn and those abandoned, men and women oppressed because of race, creed, religion, or gender.

We ask for minds and hearts that are open to hearing the voice of leaders who will bring us closer to your Kingdom.

We pray for discernment so that we may choose leaders who hear your Word, live your love, and keep in the ways of your truth as they follow in the steps of Jesus and his Apostles and guide us to your kingdom of justice and peace.

We ask this in the name of your Son Jesus Christ and through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Amen.

As individuals and families, please commit yourselves to this prayer until Election Day.

New episodes premiere on YouTube and Facebook every Sunday morning at 8am, with accompanying resources, questions and activities to help you have faith-centered conversations and experiences in the home every week, and learn more about our Catholic faith. For families, youth and adults of all ages to do together or for personal growth and reflection. Email Matt at mzemanek@st-timsrc.org for additional information or to be added to the e-mail list. The most recent episode is here: https://youtu.be/QD1op4T34e4

THRIVE Young Adult Ministry is continuing to meet every Thursday from 7:30-9pm on Zoom. Join us for social time, Scripture study and discussion based on the upcoming Sunday readings (usually the second reading) and some fun Catholic trivia. Follow us on Instagram @thrive_yam for daily content, and email Matt at mzemanek@st-timsrc.org for additional information.

Our High School Youth Ministry is continuing to meet every Sunday from 7:30-8:30pm on Zoom. all teens are welcome to join us for an opportunity to check-in, play games, pray together and dive into Scripture. Follow us on Instagram @sttimsyouthministry and email Matt at mzemanek@st-timsrc.org for details.

Registration for the Sacrament of Confirmation CLOSES TODAY, October 15th! Registration is 100% online and can be completed here: https://form.jotform.com/82735587906168. Contact Matt at mzemanek@st-timsrc.org if you have any questions!

Click HERE to view our weekly parish bulletin to stay up to date

Follow us on Facebook for daily spiritual content, Mass, updates, periodic events, and for a weekly rosary Live on Tuesdays at 8:30am. www.facebook.com/sttimothycc