Intentional Discipleship

Details: 04 October 2013

The Diocese of Lincoln has a far-reaching reputation for its orthodoxy and for the fidelity of its clergy and laity to the teachings of the Catholic Church. Sometimes people from other dioceses who do not enjoy such a blessing note how lucky we are to live here. A fitting response to such a remark is: "While we have been blessed in many ways, we are careful not to forget that we too are subject to the effects of Original Sin here in our diocese."

One of the predicaments with which the Church presently is struggling is the decrease of commitment to weekly Mass attendance and regular involvement in the parish. This downward trend is a problem nationally, with weekly Mass attendance dipping down to the 25% mark. Thanks to excellent diocesan leadership, strong family values and God’s abundant grace, the commitment levels are significantly higher in the Diocese of Lincoln than in other parts of the country. Nonetheless, we have been experiencing a parallel decline locally, with our Mass attendance figures plunging from about 70% 10 years ago to around 55% presently. Such a rapid decline in commitment to what is most essential to our Catholic Faith is disconcerting, to say the least.

Many studies have been done over the past 30 years to try to identify the roots of this spiritual epidemic. The results point to a variety of factors that contribute to the contagion but, with the culture changing so rapidly, it is difficult to pinpoint the source of the problem and proffer a solution. However, there certainly are characteristics common to those who remain faithful to their Lord’s Day obligation. One of the most prevalent of these traits may be described as intentional discipleship. While most Christians would describe themselves as disciples of Jesus, the majority unfortunately do not bear witness to that claim. They do not practice the Faith dutifully; they do not follow the Commandments conscientiously; they do not serve their neighbors charitably; and they are not good stewards of the time, talent and treasure entrusted to them by God.

Intentional discipleship is measurable and noticeable. Intentional disciples not only go to church every Sunday; they also live out their beliefs in a variety of ways throughout the week. They are religious people, and everybody knows it. They are generous with all that God has given them. They stand up not only for what the Church teaches, but also for individuals who are suffering injustices (e.g. the unborn). They avoid participating in activities or events they know God does not approve of, and they let others know why they are refraining from them. They are strict with themselves while exercising patience and compassion toward others. They make an effort to learn the Faith well so that it can be applied to current issues and articulated for the benefit of others. They pray fervently for the needs of individuals, for the growth and health of the Church, and for moral solutions to global concerns. They carry out the corporal and spiritual works of mercy.

How do we measure up to this standard of Christian discipleship? Those who were not intentional disciples in Jesus’ day mistook his identity, misinterpreted His teachings and ultimately rejected Him altogether. There are more than enough Americans who self-identify as disciples of Jesus while rejecting His moral guidance and His love. What we need to reverse the toxic spiritual trend in our land is more intentional discipleship—in other words, the stuff of saints. Are you in?