RE matters
October 22, 2021In the Catholic Church October is the month of Mission
What makes us Christians is following Christ and mission month reminds us to carry out and continue the work of Jesus on Earth, and that the Gospel values need to be lived out. Sunday’s (17 October) Gospel reading (Mark 10:35-45) tells how the Son of Man himself did not come to be served but to serve (Mark:10-45). In the Gospel Jesus challenges the disciples, and each one of us, to ‘climb down the ladder to greatness’—to act and see differently. Jesus points out to disciples James and John; their ambition needs to be transformed into a humble ministry of service of others rather than a proud serving of self. Like the disciples we too are called to serve all—to be ‘Christlike’ in our actions, behaviour, and attitudes.
Overall, the Gospel reading speaks of Leadership – we are called to lead in some way, be it in our homes, the workplace, the classroom, in our community, in our sporting team or in the Church. Jesus reminds us that leadership is a call to service – to servant leadership (John 13). Leadership for Mission is apt as our school community begins to return to school in a COVID-19 impacted world. Therefore, let us rise to the challenge of mission and ‘be witnesses of a life that has the flavour of the Gospel’ (Pope Francis), greet one another as friends, share our skills and talents, build, and strengthen our relationships within the community and most importantly help those in need, especially ‘those who cannot repay you.’ (Luke 14:14).
For those within our SFX community who have lost a family member in recent times, we keep you in our prayers.
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace. Amen.