This morning, Bishop Rivituso celebrated Mass for the 8th graders. His message was one of mission.

In today’s Gospel, we read about how Jesus appointed the 12 apostles that they might be with Him, and that He might send them forth to preach the Gospel. In that same way, we have been appointed by Jesus Christ to continue His mission in this life. But if we don’t pursue a relationship with Him and continue His mission here on Earth as He has appointed us to do with His grace, we fail to make a difference with our lives.

Bishop Rivituso reminded us that we are special people because we are loved by Jesus Christ. We have been called by our Father to grow daily in our relationship with Him. Every day, He asks us to open our hearts to His heart. Invite Him into your life, share your joys and sorrows with Him, because when He is with you, you are not alone. Our world is hungry for more, and you have been given the task of sharing Christ’s goodness with others.

Today is also St. Francis de Sales’ feast day. He is known for saying “Be who you are and be that well.” We can learn a lot of wisdom from the saints and St. Francis reminds us that when we act as the daughter or son of God that we are, we are living out our mission. This community of faith that we have gathered together as here in D.C. is the most effective witness to life. When Jesus is present in our hearts and lives, we are the most of who we are.

Today as we March for Life, we are on mission; the Lord has called us. Bishop Rivituso reminded us that our commitment and love for Jesus has brought us here today to give witness to His Gospel of Life. Today is one of the greatest ways to show your love for the Lord to make a difference. Jesus will sustain us and give us courage to participate in a peaceful March for unborn children. Be a strong witness, today and every day.

Quotables

“Be who you are and be that well.” – St. Francis de Sales

“All should be given the gift to live life fully.” – Bishop Rivituso