Dear Friends in Christ, 

There is no more essential requirement of our Christian discipleship than to make known the Gospel of Jesus Christ in both our words and deeds. This obligation to share the Good News that we have received in our baptism was given to the Disciples, according to Mark’s Gospel, by none other than Christ Himself as a final instruction before ascending into Heaven. 

The Church has rightly designated this third Sunday of September to emphasize the invaluable role that our catechists, in particular, play in our parish families as they nurture and guide our young people, and also adults, in a deeper understanding and appreciation for our Catholic faith.  We are deeply grateful to them for sharing so generously their time and commitment, and we pledge to them our support and prayers that God will bless them abundantly as they carry out this essential ministry. 

The theme of this year’s celebration is inspired by the Letter of 1 Peter 3:15  — “Always be ready to make your defense to anyone who demands from you an accounting for the hope that is in you…”  In these days especially, when there is so much acrimony, division and violence in our communities and across our land, we as Christians must not hesitate in asserting the basis for our hope, as we work even more fiercely to bring about understanding, acceptance, forgiveness and peace.  

Let us together recommit to spreading Christ’s Gospel of hope and to demonstrating in our words and countless acts of kindness and charity that we are who we say we are: true followers of Jesus who have come to know His boundless gift of love, forgiveness and, indeed, hope.  The faith we have received is a gift that we can never keep to ourselves, but is one we must share constantly, and in the same full measure that it has been given to us.  

May the Lord, who is the Giver of Peace and source of all hope, bring to fulfillment the good work he has begun in us and through us! 

Sincerely in Christ,
Most Reverend Michael W. Fisher
Bishop of Buffalo