Becoming missionary disciples

By The Most Rev. Lawrence T. Persico
05/07/2026

The call to discipleship lies at the heart of the Christian life. Catholicism has never been a faith lived in isolation – the image of the cross itself reminds us of this truth. The vertical beam points upward toward our relationship with God, but the horizontal beam reminds us of our connection to one another.

As the cross is dependent on both directions, our faith is about loving God and walking together with our sisters and brothers in Christ.

In today’s culture, however, it can be easy to reduce faith to a personal relationship with Jesus alone. While that relationship is essential, discipleship also means belonging to a community and helping others encounter Christ.

The angels’ question in Acts of the Apostles: ‘Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven?’ remains a timeless call for disciples of Jesus Christ to move beyond gazing upward and step into the mission He entrusted to them – discipleship.

A disciple is not simply someone who believes; a disciple is someone who acts.

Like any meaningful commitment, discipleship requires effort and practice. You don’t become an athlete by wishing it. You exercise and train. The same principle applies to faith. Living as a disciple means intentionally practicing the habits that strengthen our relationship with God.

The first and most important of those habits is participation in the sacraments. Attending weekly Mass, reception of the Eucharist and regular prayer are essential to form the foundation of a vibrant spiritual life. Just as a relationship with a friend cannot survive on occasional contact, our relationship with God requires consistent attention.

You’re not really in a relationship with someone if you only see them at Christmas and Easter. Faith grows through regular encounter with Christ – especially in the Eucharist, Jesus is truly present. Receiving the Eucharist, praying before the Blessed Sacrament and spending time in Adoration allow us to be strengthened and transformed for the mission of sharing Christ with others.

Many of our parishes provide meaningful opportunities for these encounters with Christ. Parishes such as Immaculate Heart of Mary in Mercer or Holy Cross in Fairview – and many more parishes – offer times for Eucharistic Adoration, inviting the faithful into quiet prayer before the Lord. By visiting the diocesan events calendar, you will find many opportunities for prayer, worship and community across the diocese. These moments of encounter are powerful ways to remain connected to our faith and to strengthen the Church’s mission of evangelization.

Prayer during the week is also essential. Prayer does not always need to be formal or lengthy. While traditional prayers such as the Rosary are powerful and beautiful, prayer can also be as simple as speaking to God as one would speak to a trusted friend. In the midst of busy schedules and daily responsibilities, taking a few moments to talk with God can deepen faith in meaningful ways.

Our diocesan parishes and Catholic schools also play a vital role in helping people grow as disciples. When communities are welcoming, supportive and centered on Christ, they create an environment where faith can flourish. This sense of belonging is particularly important for young people.

One powerful example is the diocesan Confirmation retreat experience, where candidates gather with peers from across the region. Seeing other young Catholics who share the same faith helps them realize they are not alone. It also encourages them to speak openly about their beliefs and to witness to Christ among their friends and families.

Ultimately, the goal of Confirmation and all faith formation is not simply knowledge but transformation. The Eucharist strengthens believers to overcome fear and to live their faith publicly – with humility, courage and love.

For young people preparing for Confirmation, the hope is simple yet profound: that the spark of the Holy Spirit is ignited in their hearts and will continue t o grow. While ninth graders are still discovering who they are, the seeds planted through the sacrament can shape the course of their lives.

Parents also play a crucial role in this journey. The most powerful lesson children receive about faith often comes from the example they see at home. Families who pray together, attend Mass together and speak openly about their faith create a foundation that lasts long after Confirmation day.

Discipleship, after all, is not a single moment but a lifelong path. Strengthened by the Eucharist, supported by community and guided by prayer, Catholics of every age are called to live the Gospel and share Christ with the world.

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