Year of Faith

Today marks the beginning of what Pope Benedict XVI declares the “Year of Faith. It’s based on Acts 14:27 which says, “…They called the church together and reported what God had done with them and how he had open the door of faith…” Pope Benedict says this season of renewal, which will conclude November 24, 2013, is a “summons to an authentic and renewed conversion to the Lord, the One Savior of the world.”

One of the ways Catholics worldwide are encouraged to deepen our relationship with Christ and his Church during this time is to reflect on the catechism. I cannot help but think of the catechesis of the twofold commandment of charity based on Luke 10:27 to love God and our neighbor.

At Cross Catholic Outreach, we recognize the poorest of the poor as our neighbors. We seek to help them because we love them, God loves them, and we love God. The more we celebrate our faith with the poor, the stronger our own faith is renewed; and, because we work through local churches and church-based ministries, the deeper the poor grow in their relationship with the Church.

Pope Benedict said, “The ‘door of faith’ is always open for us, ushering us into the life of communion with God and offering entry into his Church.”

So. The door is open. How are YOU going to renew your relationship with Christ and the Church this year?

-Nola B.