The Call of the Missionary Vocation
In a rapidly changing world, the missionary vocation remains a beacon of hope and service. At the heart of this commitment is an unwavering confidence, illuminated by the spiritual guidance of “Vita Consecrata” the apostolic exhortation of St. John Paul II. As members of the Mission Congregation, we explore the deeper meaning of navigating the waters of our vocation with confidence and determination.
To the three ecstatic disciples comes the Father’s call to listen to Christ, to place all trust in him, to make him the center of their lives.
Confidence in Vocation: The Anchor of Spiritual Life
The missionary vocation is an anchor in the spiritual life, a fixed point of stability and security. John Paul II, in “Vita Consecrata,” emphasizes the value of the consecrated life, rooted in the teachings of Christ. For missionaries, this means embracing one’s calling with unconditional trust, knowing that every step is guided by divine wisdom.
It is necessary to trust the Lord Jesus, who continues to call to follow him, and to rely on the Holy Spirit, the author and inspirer of the charisms of consecrated life.
The Vincentian Charism: Sails in the Wind of the Spirit
The missionaries of the Congregation of the Mission, following the Vincentian charism, are like sails unfurled to the wind of the Holy Spirit. Pope Francis reminded us that our lives are a reflection of Christ’s love. This charism inspires us to sail with courage, carrying the message of hope and service to those most in need.
The courage of proclaiming the Lord Jesus must be accompanied by trust in the action of Providence, which works in the world and “disposes everything, even human adversity, for the greater good of the Church.”
Joy in Trust: Music on the Waves of Missionary Life
Missionary life, even with its challenges, resonates with the music of joy. Joy comes from confidence in our commitment and mission. It is a hymn that inspires and comforts, drawing others to the light and hope of the Gospel.
The world is thus proclaimed the peace that descends from the Father, the dedication that is witnessed by the Son, the joy that is the fruit of the Holy Spirit
Overcoming Storms: Trusting in God’s Grace
Difficulties are an integral part of missionary navigation. However, trust in God’s grace is our rudder in the storms, guiding us to safe harbors. ‘Vita Consecrata’ reminds us that despite the storms, our trust in God sustains and strengthens us.
From fidelity to God also flows dedication to neighbour, which consecrated persons live not without sacrifice in constant intercession for the needs of their brothers and sisters, in generous service to the poor and the sick, in sharing the difficulties of others, in solicitous participation in the concerns and trials of the Church.
An Invitation to Sail with Confidence
Our call today is to sail with confidence, guided by the star of ‘Vita Consecrata’. We conclude with an appeal to all missionaries: renew your confidence in the missionary vocation. Face the journey with courage, knowing that you are sustained by divine grace and guided by the light of faith. Together, let us explore new horizons, bringing the light of Christ to a world in need of hope.
This invitation is first and foremost a call to perseverance in the journey of holiness through the material and spiritual difficulties that mark daily events. But it is also a call to seek competence in one’s work and to cultivate a dynamic fidelity to one’s mission, adapting its forms, when necessary, to new situations and different needs, in full docility to divine inspiration and ecclesial discernment.
Girolamo Grammatico
Office of Communication
