Catechetical Sunday 2003 - Sowers of God’s Peace

by Jo Ann Borchert

On the weekend of September 21, parishes across the country will celebrate the ministry of Catechesis.

On this day or another dedicated by your parish, the entire parish community make a commitment to bring the Good News of Jesus Christ to others. We all share in the ministry of catechesis, which is - Echoing God’s Word - in all the arenas of our lives.

The second reading, James 3:16-4:3, for the 25th Sunday in ordinary time Year B, suggests the theme for this year’s Catechetical Sunday, Sowers of God’s Peace. The sequence of readings of James for the preceding weeks calls the community of believers to put faith into action. If we truly believe in God’s abiding presence, we will live in such a way that demonstrates that all are equal in God’s sight. If we will live according to this truth we will show in our daily actions a faith lived.

The reading from James for Catechetical Sunday tells us that those who trust in God will have the courage to be peacemakers in activities of daily life. Jealousy and selfishness bring about disorder. Those who live the Gospel are peaceable, gentle and full of mercy.

On Catechetical Sunday, catechists, parents and guardians, and the entire parish community make a commitment to bring the Good News of Jesus Christ to others. Dedicated catechists, who by their teaching and example proclaim the Gospel to the world, will be commissioned.

Let us encourage and support our catechetical ministers and let them know how much their efforts are appreciated for the good of the Church.