From mission-receiving to mission-sending Church

“The Church is commissioned to announce the mercy of God, the beating heart of the Gospel, which in its own way must penetrate the heart and mind of every person” (MV 11). These were the words of Pope Francis during the Year of Mercy. These words pose a challenge for each member of the Church, especially in the Philippines, as we close the celebration of the 500 Years of Christianity.

As we enriched ourselves with the talks on the history and on-going mission among us this past week, let this be our task to be sent ourselves as missionaries of mercy in our own way, be it local, continental or even international. Starting from each of our families, each one has the mission to show the heart of Jesus’ mission of mercy. In a world where brokenness is experienced due to the pain we brought to each one because of pride, greed, hatred and the like, may the ocean of Christ’s mercy be felt in each one as we strive to accept one’s imperfection. We ask that we may be able to live our mission of mercy to any member of our family, political party, church and civic community, and among people whom we brush shoulders with everyday.

Jesus, King of Mercy, we trust in you!