Church of the Madalene

What is a mission?

A mission is a three or four day retreat for a parish community. During this time, we focus on how much God loves us. The image of the crucified is the definitive statement of that love. By means of preaching, music, prayer, and ritual, the community is invited to share more deeply their life in Christ, crucified and risen. The role of the preacher is that of a cheerleader, affirming the faith that is already present and enthusing people to live out that faith.

Preparing the heart through prayer

Christians are a people of prayer, praying always for God’s will to be done. God wills for us to have a communion and oneness with him. The individual heart can best be prepared to receive the power of Jesus through prayer. At the heart of preparations for the mission is an active prayer ministry. This expresses the previous goal of awakening an expectation in Jesus’ power.

Reaching out to the most needy

A mission is a special time of Grace for all. This includes the people who worship the Lord each Sunday, as well as those who don’t. In fact, the mission is really geared towards religious conversion; the giving of our hearts to Jesus in a deeper way. All can benefit from this; we all need on-going conversion. Of special interest, however, are those who for whatever reason are not attending the Eucharist each Sunday. A mission is a splendid time to speak to the people who may not be coming to church. I pray that a concerted effort will be made to reach out to these people on the days prior to the mission.