The Expectations of a Disciple

Last week the bulletin article discussed 10 expectations that parishioners can have out of their parish. The 10 expectations came from a discussion that our parish staff had concerning the year of discipleship. This week we have the reverse question. What are 10 expectations that our parish can have from their parishioners? Many of us appreciate clear expectations and this list does a fairly good job describing those expectations.

1. Worship. Disciples worship God, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This primarily happens at Mass during which we actively participate in the Liturgy. We expect parishioners to attend Mass every Sunday and Holy Day of Obligation unless they are sick or traveling. Ideally a disciple would try to attend daily Mass once a week.
2. Adore. Disciples love being in the Presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. Our parishes are blessed to have two adoration chapels. From time to time we stop by the church to visit Jesus in the Eucharist and ideally, spend an hour with Him each week in one of our chapels.
3. Prayer. We dedicate 1% of our day, about 15 minutes, to prayer. This could be praying the rosary, prayerfully reading Sacred Scripture, or another devotional practice. We attempt to “pray without ceasing” and daily follow God’s plan for our lives.
4. Healing. In humility, disciples acknowledge their brokenness, knowing that they need Jesus the Savior to heal them. Part of this recognition is the Sacrament of Reconciliation which we recommend receiving at least quarterly. This recognition of brokenness allows us to accept the shortcomings of others.
5. Continually Learning. We are on a life-long journey of faith and transformation into Christ. We ask our disciples to attend one faith formation opportunity per year and if possible dedicate time through other electronic means such as FORMED.org or podcasts.
6. Communal. We are intentional about connecting to our brothers and sisters in Christ. This is a challenge with four parishes, but we attempt to grow together as His Disciples.
7. Share the Faith. We invest time and energy with our friends and family to witness to the Gospel. In a special way we invest in future generations and pass on the truth and beauty of the Catholic faith.
8. Service. We recognize the unique gifts that God has given us and share those gifts. We ask our disciples to serve in one Liturgical Ministry and one ministry outside of Mass.
9. Generosity. We work hard to make a living and try to share this with the Lord. Those who have more, give more. Those who have less, give less.
10. Honesty. Sometimes we are frustrated about the way things are and there is a temptation to vent our frustrations or join in gossip. However disciples know when, where, and how to speak the truth in love.
    Finally there is one last announcement. Chelsea Freisthler is stepping down as our Twinning Coordinator. She has served this role for over 3 years. She did a great job keeping us connected with Special Families in Nicaragua. We are grateful for her generosity and wish her the best in her new endeavors.

Sincerely in the Love of Jesus,
Fr. Sean Wilson