It is always good to review the mission we are called to and how we are living it out. I realized since I am entering my fourth year here at Prince of Peace, and in prayer and consultation with my various councils and leadership I felt called to update the parish’s vision. It fits with the 3 cultures I want Prince of Peace to have (unceasing prayer, healthy teamwork, & active discipleship), and it describes how we are called to live our faith. We have also updated the parish logo and letterhead to include the new mission (and to use a newer font).
Our Mission:
Abiding together in Christ, the Prince of Peace, we strive to love God with all our hearts, to love our neighbors as ourselves, and to make disciples of all people. (Jn 15:5, Mt 22:37-39, Mt 28:19-20)
A quick explanation. I feel strongly everything has to start with “abiding” in Christ. This is our prayer and Sacramental life and the culture of “unceasing prayer”. It also really sums up the spirit of the Eucharistic Revival we are engaging. This also comes from one of my favorite Scripture verses. The word “remain” is also often translated at “abide” or “live”:
I am the vine, you are the branches. Whoever remains in me and I in him will bear much fruit, because without me you can do nothing. (John 15:5)
Next, it is all about love. That is what Jesus commanded us to do and all that matters in the end. This also expresses the culture of “healthy teamwork” as we strive to know and love each other:
“Love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind…Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matthew 22:37,39)
Finally, we need to take seriously the mission Jesus gave us—to make disciples. This requires the culture of “active discipleship” as we grow ourselves and seek to help others grow in faith:
“Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20)
I encourage you to really pray on this and take up this mission statement. It is easy to remember if you go with the short version: “Abide in Christ, Love God & Neighbor, Make Disciples”. Just remember ALM, as in give alms to the poor, and you got it. I pray this mission informs all that we do and we truly do live it out.
Peace,
Fr. Greg