It is good to be back from World Youth Day! There is so much to share from my experience in Rio de Janeiro, so I will use the next couple of columns to share some of the experience with you here.
In his homily for the World Youth Day Mass, Pope Francis offered us three “simple ideas”: 1) Go, 2) Do not be afraid, and 3) Serve. Today, I will focus on the first idea, “Go.”
The pope reminded us that Jesus is calling everyone “to be a disciple with a mission.” If we keep our experiences of Jesus to our own groups, parishes and communities, it would be like withholding oxygen from a strong flame.
The command “Go and make disciples of all nations” has no “if you would like to” or “if you have time” attached. We are called to share with everyone! Not just the ones who like us or are most welcoming, but to the people who are farthest away, the ones who are sometimes the most indifferent.
The Holy Father made it clear (and continues to do so with his actions) that Jesus is for everyone. He wants everyone to feel his mercy and love! So, “Go.” Get out there and be open to everyone!
Makana Aiona is the diocesan coordinator for Young Adult Ministry.