The New Evangelization, part 3: The Focus of the New Evangelization

Here is the 3rd part to the "Disciples Called to Witness, the New Evangelization" document written by the USCCB.  This post is my thoughts on part 3, and I am attaching Justin Stroh's mini-podcasts which are great in that they are short and explains the bishop's intent in easy terms.

Part III:  The Focus of the New Evangelization

“Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest”  Mt 11:28

Pope Benedict XVI describes some of the contemporary situation confronting modern man, including secularism, globalization, and social communications, the economy, scientific and technological research, and civic and political life.   Many of these societal realities are positive, but when taken to the extreme, they can lead to disillusionment and weariness.

This is where the New Evangelization comes in.  As fellow Christians, as kindred spirits in the Church, it is our mission to continue to be evangelized, refreshed, and to seek out the hope that is in our heavenly leader, Jesus Christ.  In this way, we can fully share our faith with others, especially those burdened and fallen away from the table of the Lord for one reason or another.  Ask yourself a few questions:  How do I touch people’s lives?  How do I interact with others in a spirit of love?  How do I explain how the faith addresses modern concerns?  Interaction with those who are away from the Lord is part and particle of the New Evangelization, but we must do so with love and respect.  

Again, the 3^rd commandment is discussed as part of the key of evangelization.  Secularism has led to a diminishing recognition of Sunday as the Lord’s Day, a holy day of prayer and rest.  It is through the full participation of the Mass that those burdened with life’s trials and tribulations can find some solace.  “Our hope is not in a program or philosophy, but in the person of Jesus Christ, who comforts those who are burdened.”

As examples of the New Evangelization, before we begin to talk to others about our faith and desire for their return, we must be examples of what that Christian life is.  How do we spend our Sundays?  How do we dress for Mass?  We certainly need to be refreshed in our own faith journey in order to share it with others.

In my previous post, “What does it mean to be TOO Catholic” I list several things that I practice as a Catholic; some have been labeled as TOO Catholic to me directly.  Several dear readers responded to this post and all were appreciative for the share.  Some wish they could be better, but all sounded passionate about their Catholic faith.  YES! 

So this is where the New Evangelization comes in!

What does it mean to be TOO Catholic??

Are you TOO Catholic if you want to lead a group of mothers (not all are Catholic) at a Catholic parish function in the Hail Mary?

Are you TOO Catholic if you want to attend Mass during the week?

Are you TOO Catholic if you want to pray morning, noon, and night each day?

Are you TOO Catholic if you have a crucifix in every room of your house and one in your office?

Are you TOO Catholic if you believe the teachings of the Catholic Church are to be upheld and not optional?

Are you TOO Catholic if you believe that life at all stages is precious and should be respected and protected?

Are you TOO Catholic if you wear a scapular?

Are you TOO Catholic if you sing liturgical hymns outside of Church?

Are you TOO Catholic if you make decisions on a daily basis based on being a Catholic?

Are you TOO Catholic if you think about God and Jesus every day and being a Catholic?

Are you TOO Catholic if you consider yourself a FAN of the Pope and follow him in the news.

Are you TOO Catholic if you buy Catholic books, read Catholic books, and attend only Catholic studies?

Are you TOO Catholic if you think Catholic hospitals and health care facilities should have a strong identity?

Are you TOO Catholic if you think Catholic schools and universities should have strong Catholic leadership?

Are you TOO Catholic if you think all Catholic schools should teach with materials true to the Magisterium?

Are you TOO Catholic if you buy Catholic t-shirts, jackets, sweatshirts, and jewelry.....and WEAR THEM??

Are you TOO Catholic if you teach and guide as a parent your children in the ways of the Church daily?

Are YOU too Catholic??