A Powerful Start
Acts 1:1–11 opens the exciting story of the early Church, and honestly, it’s epic. Picture this: Jesus spends His last moments with His apostles, gives them a life-changing mission, and ascends to heaven in a cloud. It’s dramatic and full of inspiration for anyone who’s ever wondered about their place in the Church.
But here’s the thing: this passage isn’t just about Jesus leaving earth. It’s about what He leaves behind—a promise, a challenge, and hope that His message is for everyone. And that’s where inclusive Catholicism comes in, taking this vision and running with it.
What Happens in Acts 1:1–11?
Let’s break down the highlights:
- The Promise: Jesus tells His apostles to stay in Jerusalem until they receive the Holy Spirit. Think of it as the spiritual fuel they’ll need for their mission.
- The Mission: Jesus gives them a clear roadmap: “You’ll be my witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Translation? They’re called to share His love with everyone, everywhere.
- The Ascension: Jesus rises into heaven, leaving His apostles staring at the sky. Two angels show up to remind them to focus on their mission instead of waiting around for His return.
What Does This Mean for Inclusive Catholicism?
Inclusive Catholicism is all about making sure the Church reflects the universal love of Christ—welcoming everyone, breaking down barriers, and celebrating diversity. Our readings give us a solid foundation for this mission.
The Holy Spirit Unites Us All
When Jesus promises the Holy Spirit, He’s talking about something bigger than just the apostles. The Spirit is for everyone, breaking through cultural and linguistic divides at Pentecost. This reminds us that the Church should always strive to be a place where all people feel at home, no matter their background.
The Mission Goes Beyond Boundaries
Jesus didn’t set limits on who could hear His message. “To the ends of the earth” means exactly that—everywhere and everyone. Inclusive Catholicism takes this to heart, working to connect with people from all walks of life and build bridges of understanding and love.
The Ascension Inspires Hope
When Jesus ascends, it’s not the end of the story—it’s the beginning of something greater. The apostles are called to focus on the bigger picture: a world united in faith and love. This hope pushes us to dream of a Church that actively works for justice, equity, and inclusion.
Living Out the Message
This story in Acts isn’t just an ancient story—it’s a call to action. How can we live out these values today? Here are some ideas:
- Be Welcoming: Make our parish and community a space where everyone feels accepted, especially those who’ve been marginalized.
- Start Conversations: Engage in dialogue with people of different faiths, cultures, and perspectives. Building relationships is key.
- Stand for Justice: Advocate for fairness and equity in our community and beyond. The Church can be a powerful force for good!
Final Thoughts
Acts 1:1–11 is a reminder of what the Church is meant to be—a community fueled by the Spirit, focused on a universal mission, and inspired by the hope of Christ’s return. Inclusive Catholicism takes this vision seriously, striving to make the Church a home for everyone. As we reflect on this passage, let’s think about how we can step up and live out its message in our own lives.
So, what do you think? How can we make the Church more inclusive and welcoming for everyone? Share your thoughts—we’d love to hear your perspective!
Pax et Bonum!
Bishop Greer