By Emmanuel Sule | Radio Bakhita|
Catholic Christians in Juba have been urged to remain hopeful in God and actively live out their faith through service, compassion and love for others as the Church celebrated the Feast of St. Thérèse of the Child Jesus.
Delivering the homily at St. Thérèse Cathedral Parish in Juba, H.E. Stephen Cardinal Ameyu Martin Mulla reflected on the biblical story of Job, encouraging Christians to remain firm in their faith despite suffering, uncertainty and hardship.
The Cardinal cited Job’s declaration, “I know that my Redeemer lives,” as a message of hope for people facing grief, sickness, insecurity and other challenges.
He also reflected on the Gospel account of Jesus sending his disciples to proclaim the Kingdom of God, care for the sick and bring peace to communities.
Cardinal Mulla said the Church’s mission begins with prayer but must be demonstrated through practical acts of service, compassion and love.
Reflecting on St. Thérèse’s “little way” of holiness, the Cardinal said missionary work is not limited to priests, religious personnel or those who travel to distant places.
He encouraged Christians to take part in the Church’s mission through simple acts of love, prayer, service and care for people in need.
The Cardinal also called on the faithful to use the month of October to deepen their missionary prayer and devotion to the Rosary, while praying for more workers in the Lord’s harvest, including priests, religious, catechists, families and young people.
During the feast celebration, more than 100 elders and children received Holy Communion, while six couples received the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony.
The Cardinal also launched the construction of a priests’ house at St. Thérèse Cathedral Parish, marking another step in the development of the parish.
Cardinal Mulla concluded by urging Christians to follow the example of St. Thérèse by loving Jesus, helping others to know and love Him, and putting their faith into action through the ordinary acts of love entrusted to them each day.