Commentary of the Gospell

October 1, 2022

Working from Home

Here is a woman who lived hardly 24 years and never left the cloister once she entered the convent, but is recognized by the Church as the patroness of the missions. The life of St. Therese of Lisieux, whose memory we honor today, teaches us several truths: (i) that the missionary mandate is integral to the call of every Christian; (ii) that one can do missionary work in the given context of one’s life by evangelizing those around and by incessant prayer; (iii) that ardent desire for bringing souls to the knowledge and love of God and unceasing prayer for souls are key to doing missions. I once heard of a retired woman whose chosen ministry was to read the newspaper every day and say a prayer for every person mentioned therein. Isn’t it an incredible example of “working from home” when it comes to doing mission?

Paulson Veliyannoor, CMF - Claretian Publications Philippines