From the earliest ages of human history, God revealed himself through the prophets. They were given the honor of conveying the Lord’s revealed truths to his people, and paving the way for the God-man, the truth incarnate.

Among the succession of the prophets, the coming of St. John the Baptist fulfilled what was said by Isaiah: “A voice of one crying out in the desert, ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths’” (Mt 3:3). And even in the womb of his mother, St. John the Baptist announced the coming of the Son of God. He leapt in the sight of the true prophet: Christ Jesus.

We, too, are called to be prophets in our daily lives. As Catholic Christians, we recognize that Jesus physically dwells in tabernacles around the globe. Through baptism and confirmation, we have inherited the responsibility to share the Good News, even though it can be uncomfortable and at times dangerous. The prophets of old were also humans who experienced fear, but they placed their trust completely in the Father’s plan. Because of this, they helped multitudes believe and understand the will of God.  

When people who do not share the faith ask about what we believe, a common temptation is to change the subject as quickly as possible or give vague answers. However, I urge you not to be afraid. Being an instrument of God’s word is a tremendous privilege, and vital to our souls and that of our neighbors. Let the light of your faith shine forth, do not hide it under a basket where no one can see it (Mt 5:15)!  

This does not mean that we should preach “at” people, but instead, we allow God to guide us in all that we think, say and do.  

Go forth, you are sent!

In Christ’s love, 

Most Rev. Jacques Fabre-Jeune, CS 

Bishop of Charleston