Province of St. Albert the Great, USA

7 May • From Persecuted Church to Global Witness

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In this reflection, Fr. Curran draws inspiration from the Acts of the Apostles (cf. Acts 8:1b-8), highlighting the courage of St. Philip. Following the martyrdom of St. Stephen and amidst the persecution of the early Christian church, Philip boldly went to Samaria to proclaim the Good News of God's healing love, transforming lives even in the face of threats and shaming.

Fr. Curran connects this ancient witness to more contemporary examples of faith under pressure.  He spoke of cardinals gathering, some of whom, like Cardinal Álvaro Ramazzini of Guatemala and Cardinal Chibly Langlois of Haiti, have been profound witnesses for persecuted peoples and those facing humanitarian crises, even enduring death threats themselves. Their presence in seeking the Holy Spirit's guidance echoes the bravery of the early disciples.

How can we, like Philip and these modern witnesses, share signs of the Spirit and bring hope to a thirsting world, even when facing our own challenges? Let this message inspire you to lift up the spirit of Good News.

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