It isn’t easy to persist in difficult circumstances, but, like the North American Martyrs, we need to try
Reflections on the readings for the Memorial of Ss. John de Brebeuf and Isaac Jogues, Priests, and Companions, Martyrs (October 19, 2018): EPH 1:11-14; PS 33:1-2, 4-5, 12-13; LK 12:1-7
MISSIO offers “Mission In Scripture” to nurture a missionary heart, providing reflections on the missionary themes in the readings of Sundays, Feast Days and Holy Days.
Eight 17th-century Frenchmen who were Jesuit priests or connected with the Society of Jesus are known as the North American Martyrs.
They left their homeland to spread the message of salvation to the native people of New York and Canada. They were able to convert a number to the Christian faith, yet their efforts were hampered by the distrust of some who blamed them for local misfortunes. Some of the men also had difficulties adjusting to different languages and food, as well as the harsh winters. Still the Jesuits endured, even turning down opportunities to return home. They were surely familiar with St. Paul’s words in today’s liturgy: “In Christ we were also chosen, destined in accord with the purpose of the One who accomplishes all things according to the intention of His will, so that we might exist for the praise of His glory” (Ephesians 1:11-12).
These missionaries were determined to share the love of God with His people. They gave everything they had to serve Jesus, whether or not they achieved the hoped-for results. They understood, as we all should, that we must persevere in doing the Lord’s will to the best of our ability – then leave the outcome in His hands.
Suggested missionary action: We can honor these North American martyrs by saying the World Mission Rosary for today’s missionaries of every continent and all the people they serve.
October is Mission Month.
World Mission Sunday is October 21.
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