Finding Jesus Christ in the Community of the Faith

Weekly Missionary Reflection
2nd Sunday of Easter, 07 April 2024
Sunday of Divine Mercy
Acts 4:32-35; Ps. 118:2-4,16ab-18,22-24; 1John 5:1-6; John 20:19-31

We must have known that the word “Church” has two meanings, as a building for Christians to worship and a community of the faithful. For some of us, the physical building of the Church might attract us more. However, do we ever ponder the situation of the Church as the community of the faithful in our surroundings? Each of us is called to follow Jesus Christ in person. Yet our faith grows in the “Church” community itself.

Today’s Gospel reading invites us to ponder how Thomas regained his faith in the community of the apostles. Just like the modern people who always seek proof of their faith, Thomas wants the proof that Jesus indeed rose and showed Himself before his friends. When he returned to the apostles and gathered with them, Jesus once again showed Himself and Thomas got the proof and he believed.

Some individuals separate themselves from the ecclesiastical community amid their spiritual struggle. However, it also happens that the communities of the faithful ignore the spiritual needs of their members, which causes some individuals to feel excluded and isolated. Such a situation is far from the picture of the early church where the apostles gathered and saw Jesus rise in the midst of them.

We should reflect on Jesus’ word. While the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood amid the disciples and said to them: “Peace be with you!” Jesus always brings peace. Only when the community of the faithful can bring harmony and peace, they can prove the presence of Jesus Christ. In such a community, those who are struggling in seeking the faith like Thomas, can regain their strength.

Dear beloved brothers and sisters, in the spirit of Easter, let us reflect on our role in building up the Church as the communion of God’s people. May through our presence as members of the Church, many people will feel and see the presence of the risen Jesus Christ. May we participate in building the Church that always emits peace and joy. God bless.

(Br. Kornelius Glossanto, SX – Xaverian Missionary)

DAILY DEDICATED PRAYER

Lord, our Father, I present my today prayer, thought, word, work, joy, and sorrow in unity with Your Son, Jesus Christ, who always presents Himself in the Eucharist for the salvation of the world. May the Holy Spirit animating Jesus, also be my guidance and strength today so that I am ready to be the witness of Your love.

Together with Mary, Mother of Jesus, and the Church, in particular, I present my prayer for our Pope and apostle prayer of the Indonesian Church of this month:

Universal Church Intent: For the role of women
We pray that the dignity and immense value of women be recognized in every culture, and for the end of discrimination that they experience in different parts of the world.

Indonesian Church Intent: Mental Health
We pray for the sensitivity of our society in recognizing people with mental health and mental disorders and making any effort to assist them in maintaining their faith.

Amen.