ON THE PATH OF SALVATION | CLASS 10 | CHAPTER 7 | PART 1 | Syro-Malabar

Summary

This session explores the essence of missionary activity through prayer, proclamation, and service. It highlights Jesus as the foundation and model for all missionary work, emphasizing how prayer was central to his mission. The session also introduces saints like St. Therese of Lisieux and St. Euphrasia, who accomplished their missions through prayer and witness. The importance of spreading the gospel and serving others, even in the face of obstacles, is underscored. Finally, the session encourages participants to reflect on how they can proclaim the gospel within their own communities.

Takeaways

• 😀 Jesus is the foundation and model of missionary activity, having been sent by God to fulfill His mission of saving the world.
• 😀 Prayer is a key means of fulfilling missionary activity, and is considered the best weapon for leading people to conversion.
• 😀 The purpose of missionary activity is to proclaim the gospel, spread the kingdom of God, and lead others to salvation.
• 😀 Jesus demonstrated the importance of prayer before engaging in any major activity, including healing and working miracles.
• 😀 Examples of saints like St. Teresa of Lisieux and St. Euphrasia showcase how prayer can be a powerful tool for missionary work, even from one’s own location.
• 😀 Missionary activities are not limited to physical travel; prayer and witness can accomplish God’s work from anywhere.
• 😀 Proclamation of the gospel through action and witness is another vital aspect of missionary activity, as demonstrated by saints like St. Francis Xavier and St. Francis of Assisi.
• 😀 Early Christian communities, as seen in the Acts of the Apostles, were deeply involved in proclaiming the gospel.
• 😀 Modern missionary activities can also use media and outreach efforts, as exemplified by Kuryakos Chavara’s use of press and retreats for the Dalit people.
• 😀 Missionary activity requires commitment, and even in the face of suffering, prayer and proclamation should remain at the heart of the mission.
• 😀 The ultimate goal of missionary activity is to continue the work Jesus began, helping others understand and embrace the mysteries of the kingdom of God.

Q & A

What is the primary focus of the missionary activity as discussed in the script?

The primary focus of missionary activity in the script is spreading the Gospel and carrying out God's mission, with an emphasis on prayer, proclamation, and action as the means to achieve this.

How does Jesus serve as the foundation and model for missionary activity?

Jesus is the foundation and model for missionary activity because he was entrusted by his Father with the mission to save the world. His life of prayer, preaching, healing, and ultimate sacrifice on the cross serves as the ideal example for Christians to follow in their own missionary work.

What role does prayer play in missionary work according to the script?

Prayer is considered the most important means for missionary activity. It is viewed as a spiritual weapon that strengthens individuals to carry out their mission, and through prayer, many can be led to conversion. Jesus' example of praying before significant activities shows the importance of prayer in fulfilling the mission.

Can you name a few saints who accomplished their missionary work through prayer?

Yes, St. Therese of Lisieux and St. Euphrasia are two saints mentioned in the script who accomplished their missionary work primarily through prayer. St. Therese, despite being confined to a sick bed, prayed for the conversion of the world, and St. Euphrasia centered her life around prayer, even during her strenuous work.

What is the purpose of missionary activity in the Church?

The purpose of missionary activity in the Church is to proclaim the Gospel and spread the Kingdom of God, ensuring that everyone receives the message of salvation. It involves both prayer and proclamation to fulfill God's will of saving all people.

How does the script explain the connection between missionary work and proclamation?

The script explains that proclamation, both through words and actions, is the greatest missionary activity. Jesus and the apostles were the first to engage in this form of mission, and figures like St. Francis of Assisi and St. Francis Xavier continued this mission by preaching and bearing witness to the Gospel.

What biblical passage is referenced in the script to underline the importance of proclamation?

Mark 1:35-38 is referenced in the script to show how Jesus dedicated himself to preaching and proclaiming the Kingdom of God, indicating that this was his primary mission. This passage highlights Jesus' commitment to spreading the message wherever he went.

Who are some individuals mentioned in the script who used media and action to spread the Gospel?

Blessed Kuryakos Chavara is mentioned as someone who used media to promote the Gospel, starting a press in Mananam, conducting retreats, and preaching the message of Christ. His work focused on the upliftment of Dalit people as well.

What does the script suggest about the role of suffering in missionary work?

The script suggests that suffering is a part of the missionary journey, as demonstrated by Jesus' own suffering and death on the cross. Missionaries may encounter obstacles, but these challenges can be endured through prayer and dedication, ultimately contributing to the fulfillment of their mission.

How can individuals today engage in missionary activity based on the script?

Individuals can engage in missionary activity by following Jesus' example of prayer, proclaiming the Gospel, and actively serving others. The script encourages people to spread the Gospel in their own communities, whether through prayer or actions, and to reflect on their role in this mission.