EXPECTED CHANGES IN CHURCH’S MINISTERIAL FUNCTION

Abstract

The mission entrusted to the Apostles: “Go, therefore, make disciples of all nations; baptize them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit”(Matthew 28,19) was empowered by the gift of the Holy Spirit (cf. Acts 2,1-12). A new community growing around the Apostles emerges as a visible Church. However, the Church needs to live by the Gospel in order to make her message meaningful. Today’s world also needs Christ–like people who are gentle and humble in heart, the people of right conscience and prepared to bear witness through the works of mercy. This yoke is not heavy for those who, taking the example of Jesus, are gentle and humble in heart. Only those Christians who have the gift of the Holy Spirit are ready to make a gift of themselves and to build in freedom, peace and love. The sacraments of penance and of the Eucharist give strength to fight against sin in both personal and social life. The call to convert is always valid and it applies to all Christians coming from various theological orientations and traditions. The call to reconciliation is to be present in one’s moral choices. The sacrament of penance offers reconciliation with God and with people who are one’s brothers and sisters. The Eucharist sanctifies and gathers in one family, inviting all for supper in Father’s Pilgrims House. The lack of unity in the Church is a serious sign of the rejection of the Gospel message. The pilgrim Church has the task to evangelise politics and to build freedom and sovereignty. In her mission, the Church always needs to care for humanity in both the personal and the social life. She is therefore identified by her respect for both the science and the human cultures.