We might be content with filling up our sisters and brothers in the faith who are with us at the Mass. However, this challenge moves us beyond them. We are to go out to our brethren who have left the Church and to those who do not know Jesus Christ. We cannot do this unless we ourselves are converted more fully to the Lord. Let us first be his disciples and then be his missionaries.

This first task for all of us, but especially for those charged with communication to others, is not picking up some new trade or additional skills. Rather, Christ calls us to friendship such that we will become other Christs. It is only in this way that we can invite others into this band of friendship, a fellowship of the Cross.

Thus, we need to make sure we are praying regularly. We cannot have a friendship unless we communicate with one another and that is even more critical for our friendship with Jesus. In addition, we need to study. This need not be some degree program. Rather, spend some time with the Bible and with the Catechism of the Catholic Church. And whenever we are reading these materials let us seek first to encounter Christ in whatever we are reading. Thirdly, we should never try this alone. Many involved in the process of communication spend a great deal of time alone on technical issues. While this is a part of our mission, the greater part is to realize we are not alone and not meant to be alone. Let us engage our families or some fellow workers or friends to join us in this journey of friendship with Jesus. Only then are we really ready to be the missionaries we are called to be.

Then we must seek ways to reach those who have wandered away or have never known the Lord. Let us not be content merely with feeding ourselves. This will take creativity and stretching, but most of all, an openness to grace. If this is what Jesus wants of us, we know that his Holy Spirit will provide. So, let us go and announce the Gospel of the Lord.