Church is not about saving ourselves. As members of the Church
we are saved by Jesus' Death and Resurrection. When we are baptized we begin living the Mystery of Christ in us and we
are called to the Mission of Jesus. He came to preach good news to the poor, open the eyes of the blind, bring release to
captives and justice to the world. He identified himself with those in need, when He said, "Whatever you do to the least
of my people, you do to Me." From the earliest days of the Church, the poor, the grieving, the sick and the imprisoned
were considered a special Presence of Christ.
The spiritual and corporal works of mercy are a summary of the mission
of the Church. We are called to instruct the ignorant; counsel the doubtful; admonish sinners; bear wrongs patiently; forgive
offences willingly; comfort the afflicted; and pray for the living and the dead. These spiritual works are part of the outreach
we do as Catholics in our everyday life and through the spiritual ministry of the Church. We are further called to feed the
hungry; give drink to the thirsty; clothe the naked; shelter the homeless; visit the sick and imprisoned; and bury the dead.
These corporal works of mercy are the basis for the Church's outreach programs to the needy. We are always called to walk
with two feet, love of God and love of neighbor, concretely shown in our actions.
Because every human being is
created in the Image of God and Jesus in His Incarnation has identified Himself with the human family, the Catholic Church
has always been in the forefront of mission to others. Historically, the first hospitals, schools and charitable organizations
were sponsored by the Church. The Catholic Relief Services is the first to respond to a need around the world. As part of
our spiritual renewal during this anniversary year, each month we will inform you of several outreach programs inviting you
to be active in the mission of the Church. At times as a parish we will respond to some need. Resurrection Parish is and will
continue to be a vibrant witness to the Presence of Christ and His mission in our community and our world.
