Evangelization

“TO BRING THE GOOD NEWS OF GOD’S KINGDOM TO EVERYONE, THROUGH A RENEWED COMMITMENT TO THE CHURCHES GREAT COMMISSION”
The Church has a mission given to it by its founder, Jesus Christ. That mission is to “Go Make Disciples “, of all nations. Evangelization is a basic part of that mission. The United States Catholic Bishops teach us in their document “Go and Make Disciples”:
“Evangelization then has both an inward and outward direction. Inwardly, it calls for our continued receiving of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, our ongoing conversion both individually and as Church. It nurtures us, makes us grow, and renews us in holiness as God’s people. Outwardly, evangelization addresses those who have not heard the Gospel or, having heard it, have stopped practicing their faith, and those who seek the fullness of faith.”
Evangelization has a rich heritage in the Catholic Church, a heritage that extends back 2,000 years to the very foundation of the Church. Evangelization is a word which may not associate with the Catholic Church. It can be defined as a gentle caring approach to sharing our Catholic faith through kind works, education, forgiveness, personal witness and positive action. Effective evangelization is more like a steady drip than big splash. This is most effectively done through everyday evangelization. I learned these from others so that I may share it with you - Deacon Al Llenos
  • Everyday Evangelizing in All Situations
  • Respond with "thank God" when someone shares good news.
  • Wear a cross or other symbol of your faith.
  • Share a story how God works in your life.
  • Ask people to pray for your intentions.
  • Start a discussion with "I believe" or "Jesus says."
  • Introduce those searching to Christ.
  • Invite to Church those not part of a faith community.
  • Make the sign of the cross when dining out.
  • Treat everyone you meet with dignity.
  • Do not judge others.
  • Share a smile and personal greeting.
  • Share with neighbors about your parish.
  • Leave religious materials in unexpected places.
  • Share a smile or personal greeting with a stranger.
  • Everyday Evangelizing Through Social Justice
  • Help those less fortunate by sharing time, talent, or money.
  • Identify your own prejudices.
  • Network with those who support your values.
  • Watch the news with the eyes of Christ.
  • Learn the facts on all sides of an issue.
  • Publicly express your opinion.
  • Act on your conviction.
  • Learn and address the values of our government.
  • Vote intelligently.
  • Work in a soup kitchen, shelter, or at some other charitable agency.
  • Everyday Evangelizing in the Workplace
  • Transact all business dealings honestly.
  • Offer to pray for a co-worker who has shared personal concerns.
  • Interact with co-workers who share your Christian beliefs.
  • Respect others' religious beliefs.
  • Pray before making decisions.
  • Verbalize Christ in your life.
  • Everyday Evangelizing in the Home
  • Devote a specific amount of time to your daily prayer life.
  • Share a Bible story with your children before bedtime.
  • Discuss the readings with your family after Mass.
  • Pray grace before meals.
  • Proudly display symbols of your faith.
  • Celebrate your feast days.
  • Establish family rituals based on the Church year.
  • Discuss the morality of a TV show.
  • Begin and end the day with prayer.
  • Everyday Evangelizing in the Parish
  • Introduce yourself to those around you.
  • Get involved, if only on a small scale.
  • Periodically change pews to meet others.
  • Be gracious in the parking lot.
  • Explain rituals to those unfamiliar with the Catholic faith.
  • Send a card to the newly baptized or confirmed.
  • Support parish leaders.
  • Invite a friend for coffee after Mass to discuss the readings.
  • Take time to get to know other members of your parish community.
  • Warmly greet others at Mass whom you do not know.