Throughout the day, Fr. Kenneth in English and Fr. Bruce in Spanish, spoke about what’s “new” about the New Evangelization and gave participants concrete examples of how we, as believers in Jesus Christ, can evangelize in all aspects of today’s world.
“Being part of this conference reminded me of how essential evangelization is in all our ministries and it inspired me to not only evangelize with words but also with my actions, said Jose Herrera, a parishioner of Christ the Redeemer, Grand Terrace and currently in the Diaconate Formation Program
When participants were not in session, they were filling the hallways visiting various vendors that offered resources, media and religious articles that can be beneficial in their ministries and in their own faith journeys.
On Oct. 18, participants also had the opportunity to listen to a panel of leaders from various parishes in the diocese share about the different evangelization programs they are currently using and how these methods have been successful in bringing new members or welcoming back people that have left the Church. Some programs discussed included The Alpha Course for Catholics, Face to Face and Catholics Returning Home.
The day ended with an Evangelization commitment prayer. Each participant received a hand-made cross and while they placed it over their heads, they said in unison, “If not me, then who will proclaim the Gospel? If not the truth of the Gospel, then what shall I proclaim? Lord, give me the courage to grow in confidence to proclaim the Gospel and boldly be witness.” This is from the prayer for the New Evangelization from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB).
With joyous and spirit-filled hearts, participants accepted the call and responsibility we all have to go out and change the world spreading the Good News of God. If you would like to learn more about the programs mentioned above or want more information, visit www.evanaff.org or contact the Office of Evangelization and Adult Faith Formation at 909-475-5195.
Ana Garcia is Consultant for Hispanic Communities in the Diocesan Office of Evangelization and Adult Faith Formation.