Club Members, Believers, and Disciples

Dear Family in Christ, 

In this Sunday’s Gospel, Our Lord mentions the word ‘disciple’ three times, and lays out the difficult conditions of being one of His. Last year, the priests of our diocese gathered with Bishop Bergie and a guest speaker to discuss the Church’s mission. One session involved an exercise in which we considered the people in our parish communities in light of the following 3 categories: Members, Believers, and disciples.

Members are those who identify as Catholics on forms or surveys; they go to Catholic schools and send their children there, they themselves are baptized/have received all their Sacraments and intend the same for their children, and go to Mass on Christmas, Easter.

Believers, in addition to all the characteristics of Members, attend Mass pretty much every Sunday and go to Confession once per year as obliged by the Church. They say grace before meals, and contribute to the needs of the Church. They may serve as lectors, greeters, or volunteer some other way in their parish. Their faith is important to them.

Disciples, in addition to all that has been said about Members and Believers, have consciously put Jesus at the centre of their lives. The will of God, and the teachings of Christ and His Church are their primary standard of discernment/decision making. They boldly proclaim the Gospel, defend the teachings of the Church, and live the commandments. Though sinners, they are resolutely determined to avoid sin, to repent, and go to confession as often as necessary.

So… which one are you? Whatever category we fit into, we are welcome in the Church- BUT we are all called to to take the next step forward. Not a member of the Church? Join RCIA! Are you a Member or Believer? This is your sign- let’s be Disciples of Jesus. Even for the Disciples, the journey is far from over; let us be Saints, once and for all.

God love you, 

Father Daniel