Memorial of Saints
Jean Brebeuf, Isaac Jogues, priest and martyrs, and companions, martyrs
(Ephesians 3:2-12, Luke 12:39-48)
Catholicism experienced a new flowering in France during
the seventeenth century. The reforms of
the Council of Trent had taken hold. French
kings favored the old faith as a way to consolidate his power. Saints like Vincent de Paul breathed into the
Church a spirituality centered on service.
One of the results of this renewal was a vigorous missionary spirit. Jesuits missionaries Jean Brebeuf, Isaac
Jogues, and companions went staunchly forth to proclaim Jesus Christ to native
peoples of America. They braved severe
discomfort and eventually cruel martyrdom to teach the unsophisticated about Christ.
Today’s first reading provides a theological framework
for their missionary activity. Through
Christ God’s calling was extended beyond the nation of Israel to all peoples of
the world. Paul was one of the first
missionaries to the Gentiles, but the preaching could hardly stop hi efforts in
eastern Europe. With the discovery of
new lands with different peoples the Christian message of salvation was brought
to what Europeans thought was the end of the earth.
Perhaps there is always a new frontier. Today we are to reintroduce the salvation
that Christ offers to people who have heard of it but in a defective way. Christ calls us to share his humility and
love with those for whom even Christianity appears narrowly self-opportunistic. It means sacrifice on our part in the short
view of things. But as the fullness of the heavens is revealed, our efforts to
share the good news will bring salvation to all.
