The charism of evangelism empowers a Christian to be an effective channel of God’s love by sharing the faith with others – baptized or not – in a way that draws them to intentionally follow Jesus. All Christians have been called to the task of bearing witness to the difference Christ has made in their lives, but some have been empowered in a special way to draw people to Christ. Those with this gift are especially drawn to non-believers or those whose faith has grown lukewarm.
This is a gift that can be suspect in many Catholic parishes where talking about faith has strangely become uncommon. Many disciples with a strong urge to speak of Christ can feel isolated by the culture of silence in a parish that has forgotten its central charge to “go and make disciples”. It is refreshing to be part of parish where evangelism is encouraged through programming like Alpha, which is a regularly occurring opportunity to invite others to faith in Jesus Christ. But we must do more. Every baptized person has to reflect on their own faith and seek opportunities to speak a word of God to others in a way that is inviting.
You may have this charism if you love talking about God and the Church and seek out opportunities to share your faith with the unchurched. This charism allows you to have remarkable results when you share the Good News. People become intrigued and desire to know more. They begin to find the person and love of Jesus compelling. Cathedral offers so many opportunities to support you in accompanying others to faith. If you don’t see what you need in the Weekly, call the office for help – we are anxious to grow disciples and encourage a spirit of evangelization at the Cathedral!
Vicki Compton is the Coordinator of Faith Formation and Mission at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conceptionin Springfield, Illinois