Ours is a Church with open doors

Like so many other religious groups, Catholics are undergoing persecution. We are like the early Church following the resurrection of Jesus and the time of the Apostles, when the Church found itself in a hostile world and its members doing their best to live out their baptismal call.

In our current, oftentimes adverse environment, lay Catholics are called to live their faith just as ardently and enthusiastically as the early Christians, so they may provide leaven for the world around them. Pope Pius XII states “They (the laity) in particular ought to have an ever-clearer consciousness not only of belonging to the Church, but of being the Church, that is to say, the community of the faithful. ... They are the Church” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 899). The Second Vatican Council referred to the laity as the people of God and encouraged them to live as such, so that “by the witness of their life, resplendent in faith, hope and charity they must manifest Christ to others” (L.G., 31).

But how do Catholics do that if the environment is hostile and unfriendly toward their faith? We can begin by making certain we are spiritually fed at Mass and partaking of the Eucharist, spending time in the adoration chapel, saying the rosary, praying with family and friends, listening to Catholic radio and Christian music, gathering with other like-minded Catholics for fortification and encouragement, and staying true to the sacraments.

If we work in an environment that is judgmental toward Catholics, or even intimidating and unreceptive of our faith tradition, we must choose to remain steadfast and consistent, always knowing that we are supported by the Holy Spirit. We must do what Ephesians 6:13-15 states: “Put on the armor of God, that you may be able to resist on the evil day and, having done everything, to hold your ground. So stand fast with your loins girded in truth, clothed with righteousness as a breastplate, and your feet shod in readiness for the gospel of peace” (NABRE). We must remember that we do not go into battle on our own and that the risen Christ protects and redeems us through his sacrifice on the cross. If we find ourselves in hostile territory, we must remember that we will be fortified by Christ himself. This requires great courage and commitment to live out our baptismal call, proclaiming the gospel of peace to everyone we meet.

Action Plan

uFortify yourself and your family by attending Mass faithfully. Spend time in the adoration chapel. Say the rosary. Strengthen your faith.

uBe prepared to defend your faith when you experience negativity or persecution. Listen to faith-based podcasts, read the Bible, learn the Catechism and be a living witness to the good news of Jesus Christ to everyone you meet.

This will not be an easy assignment, and as Pope Francis has reminded us, “The Church has a public role over and above her charitable and educational activities. She works for the advancement of humanity and of universal fraternity.” The pontiff said the Church “offers herself as a family among families, (because we are) the Church, open to bearing witness in today’s world, open to faith, hope and love for the Lord and for those whom he loves with a preferential love. A home with open doors. The Church is a home with open doors, because she is a mother” (Fratelli Tutti, 115).

Pope Francis has encouraged us to embrace our call to serve others “in order to accompany life, to sustain hope, to be the sign of unity … to build bridges, to break down walls, to sow the seeds of reconciliation” (Fratelli Tutti, 115). So rather than returning hatred with hatred, we are called to sow love. Being Christians who live with our hearts open and receptive to everyone, even those who do not like us, is our call in an unwelcoming, intolerant world that does not embrace our perspective. Let us pray for the grace of the Holy Spirit to respond to all situations with his profound and encouraging love.

Soucheray is a licensed marriage and family therapist emeritus and a member of St. Ambrose in Woodbury. Learn more at her website ifhwb com