Reflections

“Preach the Gospel at all times. Use words if necessary.”

This saying is attributed to St. Francis. An interpretation would be for Christians to demonstrate the Gospel in their everyday life through actions and, if necessary, by using words.

At the end of every Mass, the priest or deacon states, “The Mass has ended, go in peace to love and serve the Lord.” We have not only received the body and blood of Christ, but we have also received The Word. The priest’s closing instructions to us are to go and spread the Gospel.

Through out the Bible, the word, “Go” is used, not merely as a command to leave, but usually also association with taking some type of action. Thus, it becomes an action verb.  To Go and do Something. Not only as Catholic Christians, but as Secular Franciscans, we are commanded to leave the Mass and spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ through actions and words.