“Be Courageous, I have conquered the world (John 16:33)”

Sep 11, 2014

Celebrating Catechetical Sunday

This year, the Church will celebrate Catechetical Sunday on September 21, 2014, and will focus on the theme "Teaching About God's Gift of Forgiveness." Those whom the community has designated to serve as catechists will be called forth to be commissioned for their ministry. Catechetical Sunday is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the role that each person plays, by virtue of Baptism, in handing on the faith and being a witness to the Gospel. Catechetical Sunday is an opportunity for all to rededicate themselves to this mission as a community of faith.

It is not easy to become a disciple of Jesus. It has never been easy because Jesus Himself demands, ‘If anyone wants to be a follower of mine, let him renounce himself and take up his cross everyday and follow me’ (Luke 9:23). Nevertheless Jesus assures us that he will be with His followers till the end of time (Mat. 2S:20). The theme of our Catechetical Sunday this year, 2014, which will fall on 21 September is Be courageous, I have conquered the world.(John 1603).

It is a fact that in our journey of faith as disciples of Jesus, we have to face many challenges that can create fear in us. In Malaysia we face many threats and pressures openly, quietly or insidiously aimed at us. What steps should we take in order to build and strengthen our Christian faith?

Firstly, we need to be convinced of the need to build and strengthen our Christian faith through our close relationship with the person of Christ (Jn. 15:4-5, Col. 2:6-7). Secondly, we need to be convinced that our Christian faith needs the power and guidance of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is our helper. He teaches us and reminds us of the teaching of Christ (John. 14:26). Thirdly, we need to be convinced that our Christian faith needs the support and protection of our Christian communities (Acts.2:41-47). Our role and responsibility as parents and catechists in making Jesus better known, loved and served must be guided and built on the three faith-formation foundation mentioned above.

Jesus has given us His assurance. Let us place our trust and faith in His living message. Whatever we hear, see and experience that may bring fear, let us remember His assurance, “be courageous, I have conquered the world.”

We thank Fr John Anandan for the reflection he has prepared for Catechetical Sunday 2014.

Thank you.