Mustard Seeds

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How am I to follow Jesus Christ?

Sometimes we find ourselves wondering how we should follow Christ in our lives, and sometimes we wonder if we are really worthy of following Christ because of the weight of our sins.

We must in those moments find our way looking at the call of the apostles, we can begin to follow Jesus Christ on the recommendation of others and then stay by his side as happened with Andrew and John, initially disciples of John the Baptist (John 1:35- 39). We can witness his miracles and even feeling unworthy, we follow Jesus Christ; just as Simon-Peter and James did (Luke 5:1-11). We can find ourselves immersed in our work, but a call from Jesus Christ makes us follow him despite the sins we have committed; just as it happened to Matthew (Matthew 9:9-13). We can even be on a totally opposite path to Jesus Christ, but an encounter with Him is enough for us to change our lives and proclaim his works, as happened to Paul (Acts 9: 1-22).

Our Lord Jesus Christ will come to meet us regardless of the path we are, the important thing is that once He calls us, we make the decision to follow Him, because He is the way, the truth and the life (John 14:6), and with Him we can know the Father, because He is in the Father and the Father is in Him (John 14:11).

Following Jesus Christ implies following his teachings, commemorating the paschal sacrifice, and above all participating in said sacrifice, which is the Holy Eucharist, since we have to eat the body of Christ because He is the living bread that came down from heaven, and the one who eats from that bread will have eternal life. (John 6:51)

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What is our mission as lay people?

Our Lord Jesus Christ after his resurrection appears to his disciples for the third time, and after eating with them Jesus has the following dialogue with Simon-Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these? Yes, Lord, he said, you know that I love you. Jesus said: Feed my lambs. Again, Jesus said, Simon son of John, do you love me? He answered: Yes, Lord, you know that I love you. Jesus said, Take care of my sheep. The third time he said to him, Simon son of John, do you love me? Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, Do you love me? He said, Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you. Jesus said, Feed my sheep” (John 21:15-17). In this text we see the Lord giving Peter the pastoral ministry, He was leaving to him and his successors the government of the Church, a government that would be shared collegially with the apostles and their successors, the bishops; and from them the entire hierarchical body of the Church: priests, deacons, and the different lay ministries.

This Petrine government is shared in its specific mission by each baptized person, since we all receive the triple anointing in our baptism as priests, prophets and kings; priests who, united like the branch to the vine, which is the priesthood of Christ, can offer our lives for the glory of God and the good of our brothers; prophets, who, united with the mystical body of Christ, strongly denounce what is contrary to God’s commandments, announcing that the Kingdom of Heaven is already among us, and kings because Christ grants us with his redemption the dignity of children of God.

This general or baptismal priesthood enables all of us to participate in the pastoral mission of the Church with the same conditions that our Lord imposes on Peter, that we love him and on top of that love for Christ, He will hand over to us the missions of our life, which will always be “feed my sheep”, that is, “take care of the brothers and sisters that I am going to give you as a mission”, be it a family, a lay ministry, the priestly ministry, a diocese, or the entire Church, in the case of the Pope.

The different services within the Church, the different movements and prayer groups, at whatever level, are part of this pastoral mission, which is the mission of pastoral ministry always in communion with the Holy Father, the diocese and the parishes.

Let us always be ready to follow the mission to which Jesus Christ calls us in our lives, always ready to tell Him that we love Him, every time He asks us through the Holy Spirit expressed in our neighbor.

Romero, Luis Miguel “El Ministerio Pastoral del Laicado” Catholic Faith Network 13 June 2023, https://vimeo.com/855809440

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What is the importance of the altar during the mass?

In God’s salvation plan, our Lord Jesus Christ is the perfect sacrifice, not only because he is the lamb without blemish, but because He is, in this sacrifice, at the same time: high priest, sacrifice and altar (Rite of Dedication of a Church and an Altar).

During mass, the altar is the symbol of Christ himself, present in the midst of the assembly of his faithful, both as the victim offered for our reconciliation and as heavenly food given to us (CCC 1383). The altar is given the most prominent place in the church, occupying the place that is truly the center towards which the attention of the entire congregation of the faithful naturally converges (GIRM 299).

This is also why the laws of the Church strongly encourages the altar to be fixed to the ground to indicate the Christ eternity and never-ending commitment to his people. Furthermore, at the very least its mensa is to be made of stone echoing the scriptures which repeatedly call Christ a rock and cornerstone (1 Peter 2:4, 1 Corinthians 10:4, Ephesians 2:20).

When an altar is dedicated, it is anointed and incensed. These liturgical actions reveal the sacramental reality of the altar as a sacrament of Jesus Christ. During the dedication prayer, the altar is anointed with the sacred chrism precisely because Jesus Christ is the One Anointed by the Father with the Holy Spirit, making him “High Priest, who, on the altar of His body, offers the sacrifice of His life for the salvation of all” (RDCA). The sacred chrism, the same that we receive at our baptism and confirmation, and that with which the head of the consecrated bishop is anointed, is poured over the five crosses that adorn the altar table, crosses that represent the five wounds of our Lord Jesus Christ, and it is spread over the entire surface of the mensa by the consecrating bishop. Additionally, incense is burned during the dedication of the altar to signify that the perfect sacrifice of Jesus Christ ascends to God the Father as an odor of sweetness.

The altar is the table of sacrifice and at the same time the table of the paschal banquet, on which Jesus Christ offers himself as the new sacrificial lamb. The altar is not only the fulfillment of the paschal table on the last supper, but also prefigures the table of the heavenly banquet, that banquet in which we will celebrate total reunification with God and all of his creation.

Let us show due respect to the altar during the celebration of mass, since it is not only the table of the paschal banquet but also the representation of Jesus Christ who, as High Priest, on the altar of His body, offered the sacrifice of His life for the salvation of all of us.

McNamara, Denis. “Altar as Alter Christus: Ontology and Sacramentality” Adoremus, 18 June 2016, https://adoremus.org/2016/06/altar-alter-christus-ontology-sacramentality

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Who exercises authority over the local Church?

Our Lord Jesus Christ first entrusted to Peter the foundation and authority over the Church (Matthew 16:18-19) and then extends this authority over the Church to the Apostles (Matthew 18:18); after his resurrection, He breathes on them the Holy Spirit (John 20: 22-23), gives them the mission of promulgating the good news (Mark 16:15) and reiterates Peter’s role as leader of the Church. (John 21:15-17).

When we pray the Creed, we declare that the Church is “One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic”, is in this last declaration of faith that we recognize the apostolic succession from the apostles to the bishops. (Acts 1:21-26)

Peter and his successors are the base or foundation of the Church and in turn its highest authority on earth. It is the Pope, in whom remains the function that the Lord uniquely entrusted to Peter, head of the College of Bishops, Vicar of Christ and Pastor of the universal Church on earth (Canon 331).

Likewise, the Bishops as successors of the Apostles, whom by virtue of the Holy Spirit, are constituted as pastors in the Church so that they too may be teachers of the doctrine. Through episcopal consecration, along with the function of sanctifying, Bishops also receive the functions of teaching and governing, which, however, by their very nature, can only be exercised in hierarchical communion with the head and with the members of the College of Bishops (Canon 375).

It is in the episcopal consecration, in which the presbyter elevated to bishop receives the fullness of the priesthood; he is anointed with the sacred oil, being this spilled over his head so that the Holy Spirit pours his gifts on him and illuminates his decisions.

It is the bishop who is entrusted with the care of the local church or diocese, and it is he who occupies the center of the local Church, and, aided by his Presbytery, has the highest authority in matters of teaching, sanctification and government; he also has responsibility for the pastoral care of the diocese, and is also known as the ordinary bishop or diocesan bishop.

All the Catholic faithful are bound to follow with Christian obedience, everything that the bishops, inasmuch as they represent Christ, declare as teachers of the faith or establish as rulers of the Church (Canon 212).

Let us continue in prayer for the well-being of the Holy Father and our ordinary Bishop, that the Holy Spirit continue to pour out on them and always enlighten them.

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Why is the Sign of Peace exchanged during the Mass?

In the celebration of the Mass, there is a special moment when we exchange the sign of peace with one another. This gesture holds great significance, representing unity, love, and reconciliation within the Christian community. Let’s explore why the sign of peace is an important part of the Mass and how it reflects the teachings of Jesus Christ.

The Significance of Peace:

Peace is an essential aspect of our faith, emphasized throughout the Bible. Jesus himself said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you” (John 14:27). Through the sign of peace, we are called to share in the peace of Christ and extend that peace to one another. It reminds us of the harmonious relationship we are called to have with God and with our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ.

Unity and Reconciliation:

During the sign of peace, we acknowledge the presence of Christ in one another and affirm our unity as the body of Christ. It is a moment to reconcile with one another, letting go of conflicts or misunderstandings. Just as Jesus taught us to reconcile with our brothers and sisters before offering our gifts at the altar (Matthew 5:23-24), the sign of peace invites us to seek unity and reconciliation in our relationships.

Concrete Example:

Imagine a group of friends playing a team sport. In the midst of the game, they may have disagreements or misunderstandings. However, when they come together to celebrate a victory, they shake hands or give each other high fives as a sign of unity and camaraderie. Similarly, during the sign of peace, we express our unity and love for one another as members of God’s team, the Church.

The sign of peace in the Mass is not just a formality; it is a powerful moment of connection and love. It invites us to actively participate in the teachings of Jesus Christ by seeking unity, reconciliation, and harmony within our Christian community. As we exchange this sign, let us remember the words of St. Paul: “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body” (Colossians 3:15). May the sign of peace be a reminder of our call to live in peace and love, embracing one another as brothers and sisters in Christ.

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What is the Significance of Holy Water in the Catholic Church: Scripture, Theology, History, and Catechism Perspectives?

The use of holy water in the Catholic Church has its roots in both Scripture and Tradition, and it serves multiple purposes within the Catholic faith. Let’s explore the scriptural, theological, historical, and catechetical aspects of holy water.

In the Old Testament, we see the Israelites purified by water rituals before entering the temple or engaging in sacred activities (Numbers 19:17-19). Additionally, in the New Testament, water is used in baptism, which symbolizes the cleansing of sins and rebirth in Christ (Matthew 3:11, Acts 2:38).

The theological significance of holy water can be understood in light of the sacraments, particularly baptism. Water, as a natural element, is a powerful symbol of life, purification, and regeneration. Holy water is blessed by a priest, invoking God’s presence and grace upon it, making it a sacramental—a sacred sign that brings us closer to God’s grace. When we bless ourselves with holy water, we recall our baptism, renew our commitment to live as disciples of Christ, and seek God’s purification and protection.

The use of holy water has a long history in the Catholic Church. Early Christian communities recognized the spiritual value of water, often sanctifying it for blessings and rituals. Over time, the use of holy water became more formalized and widespread within the liturgical practices of the Church. Today, holy water fonts are found in churches, where the faithful can bless themselves with it as they enter or exit, reminding them of their faith and the need for spiritual cleansing.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church affirms the significance of holy water as a sacramental. In paragraph 1668, it states, “Sacramentals do not confer the grace of the Holy Spirit in the way that the sacraments do, but by the Church’s prayer, they prepare us to receive grace and dispose us to cooperate with it.” Holy water, as a sacramental, helps us prepare to receive God’s grace, strengthens our faith, and reminds us of our baptismal promises.

In summary, the use of holy water in the Catholic Church is rooted in Scripture, Tradition, and the theological understanding of water as a symbol of purification and life. It has been part of the Church’s history for centuries and is recognized in the Catechism as a sacramental that prepares us to receive God’s grace. Blessing ourselves with holy water helps us remember our baptismal promises, seek God’s purification, and express our desire to live as faithful disciples of Christ.

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What is the Role of Godparents and Sponsors for Confirmation According to Catholic Teaching?

According to Catholic teaching, the role of godparents and sponsors for Confirmation is to provide spiritual support and guidance to the candidate as they prepare to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. Here are the key aspects of their roles:

  1. Godparents/Sponsors Selection: Godparents are typically chosen at the time of Baptism, while sponsors are chosen specifically for the Sacrament of Confirmation. Both godparents and sponsors should be practicing Catholics who have received the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist.
  2. Spiritual Guidance: Godparents and sponsors are expected to provide ongoing spiritual guidance and support to the candidate. They should serve as role models of faith and encourage the candidate to deepen their relationship with God and the Church.
  3. Faith Formation: Godparents and sponsors have a responsibility to help the candidate grow in their understanding of the Catholic faith. They may assist in preparing the candidate for the sacrament by teaching them about the significance of Confirmation, the gifts of the Holy Spirit, and the responsibilities of living as a confirmed Catholic.
  4. Prayer and Encouragement: Godparents and sponsors should pray for the candidate regularly, both individually and together. They should also offer words of encouragement and provide a listening ear when the candidate has questions or concerns about their faith journey.
  5. Representation and Support: During the Confirmation ceremony, godparents or sponsors often stand with the candidate as they make their profession of faith. They represent the Catholic community and offer their support and encouragement as the candidate receives the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.
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How important is the celebration of Pentecost for Catholics?

Fifty days after Good Friday, the Catholic Church celebrates Pentecost Sunday. Where does this celebration come from and how important is it for us Catholics? To find the origins of Pentecost we must go back to the day when the Exodus of the Jews from Egypt finally took place, specifically on Passover day, since it was the next day that Pharaoh finally allowed them to leave Egypt, after traveling through the desert for seven weeks, Moses climbs Mount Sinai and receives the ten commandments (Exodus 20:1-17), these two dates are still important for our older brothers in faith, the Jewish people.

That is why on that day of Pentecost there were gathered in Jerusalem many Jews and converts to Judaism whose regular language was not Hebrew or Aramaic, since they had been born outside the kingdom of Judah, since this was one of the Jewish religious festivals that required pilgrimage to Jerusalem.

It is on this date, and just as Jesus Christ had announced to His disciples (John 14:15-17), it happened that while they were meeting in secret for fear of the authorities, the Holy Spirit enters the house where they were and fills it completely, all the disciples were then filled with the Holy Spirit and went out to proclaim the good news, the Gospel, to everyone; and all who heard them, heard them in their own languages (Acts 2:1-11).

The reception of the Holy Spirit by the disciples and the revelation of the Gospel to all peoples marks the birth of the Universal Church: the Catholic Church. The disciples received the gifts and fruits of the Holy Spirit just as we received them through the Sacrament of Confirmation, and it is by using these gifts that they can communicate the good news to all who are willing to listen, just as it is our mission to take the Gospel to those around us.

Let us cultivate the gifts and fruits of the Holy Spirit strengthened in us through the Sacrament of Confirmation, in which we are sealed to be living witnesses of Jesus Christ.

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What is the importance of the Ascension of the Lord in God’s salvation plan?

Forty days after Resurrection Sunday, the Catholic Church celebrates the day of the Ascension of the Lord, when our Lord Jesus Christ returns to the Kingdom of Heaven. This event marks the transition between the glory of the risen Christ and that of the exalted Christ at the right hand of the Father. It also opens the possibility for humanity to enter the Kingdom of God as Jesus announced so many times.

The Ascension of Christ is also the starting point to begin to bear witness to the exalted Christ who returned to the Father to sit at His right. The glorified Lord continues to be present in the world through his action in those who believe in his Word and allow the Spirit to act within them. Jesus’ mandate is clear and current: “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation” (Mark 16:15).

This is how through the events of the Old Testament the nature of God the Father is revealed to humanity in a certain way, it is during the walk of our Lord Jesus Christ on Earth that the nature of God the Son is revealed to us, being His Ascension to the heavens necessary for the nature of God the Holy Spirit to be revealed later on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:1-4).

Having the Way, the Truth, and the Life been revealed to us (John 14:6), now we are to seek to be holy as our Father who is in Heaven is holy (Matthew 5:47-48).

Let us cultivate the gifts and fruits of the Holy Spirit to reach the Kingdom of Heaven that has been opened for us thanks to the death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, so that all who believe in Him do not wander in darkness, but live in the Eternal Glory of God.

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What biblical and theological basis is there for the Hail Mary prayer?

The Hail Mary prayer is a beautiful and Biblically-based prayer that has been an important part of Catholic tradition for centuries. It is a powerful example of how the Church has taken elements from Scripture and combined them into a prayer that helps us deepen our relationship with God and with one another.

Let’s start by looking at the basic structure of the Hail Mary. The first part of the prayer is taken directly from the Gospel of Luke and honors the Virgin Mary as the mother of Jesus Christ:

“Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.” (Luke 1:28,42)

These words are spoken by the angel Gabriel when he visits Mary to announce that she will give birth to the Son of God. They are a beautiful tribute to Mary’s faith and courage, and they remind us of the importance of her role in the story of salvation.

The phrase “Holy Mary, Mother of God” is based on the biblical concept of Mary as the mother of Jesus, who is recognized by Christians as the Son of God and the second person of the Holy Trinity. This title was affirmed at the Council of Ephesus in 431 AD, where Mary was declared to be Theotokos, which means “God-bearer.”

The phrase “pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death” is also based on biblical concepts. The Bible teaches that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23) and that the wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23). Therefore, as sinners, we need the prayers of Mary.

Throughout the Bible, we see examples of people praying for one another and asking for the prayers of others. We also see examples of the power of intercession – for example, when Moses intercedes on behalf of the Israelites (Exodus 32:11-14) or when the friends of the paralytic lower him through the roof to be healed by Jesus (Mark 2:1-12).

In addition, the Bible teaches that we should pray for one another (James 5:16), and the tradition of asking for the intercession of the saints, including Mary, can be traced back to the early Church. The idea is that those who have gone before us are still members of the Body of Christ and can intercede for us just as we can intercede for one another.

The Hail Mary prayer as we know it today was developed over time through the Church’s reflection on scripture and tradition. The first part of the prayer is taken from the Gospel of Luke, where the angel Gabriel greets Mary with the words, “Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with you” (Luke 1:28). The second part of the prayer, “Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen,” is a later addition that reflects the Church’s understanding of Mary’s role as a powerful intercessor and her unique relationship with her Son, Jesus.