Seven Indicators of a Mission-Minded Life (1&2)

There are seven indicators that can help anyone feel called to support the Church's mission and grow in their spiritual journey of openness to others that I will present this week. For young people especially, these may offer insight as you discern your future and the life you want to lead ~ whether that includes religious life, missionary work, or simply living out your faith more deeply in whatever path you choose.  

As you read them, reflect and listen to your heart ~ how do they resonate with you? These are just indicators, they are not specific characteristics that you need to possess before engaging in mission work or considering religious life ~ and they do seem to flow into each other. Some may be stronger and some may need more attention on your part.  Don't be discouraged, we are all growing and working on something! In no particular order, these are the first two:

1. A Sensitivity to Others

You look beyond your small circle of family and friends, looking out to the world and seeing brothers and sisters. You stand up for others, you want to be helpful to others, you refuse to allow people to bully others, you sense people's moods and have empathy for them. When they are down, you try to lift them up.

2. Attraction to Groups Dealing with Human Needs

People drawn to mission work or missionary life are often drawn to efforts like working among the poor, the disadvantaged and marginalized... being a voice for those without and a witness of hope to those in difficult situations. There are many different groups around the world standing up against injustice in our world, working for peace ~ the missionary mentality is in solidarity with all these movements through prayer and where possible, action.