Antoinette Mensah, PhD., at CAM6 with Fr. Dinh Anh Nhue Nguyen, OFMConv., Secretary General of the Pontifical Missionary Union
The Sixth American Mission Congress / Congresso Americano Missionário (CAM6) illuminated the essence of missionary discipleship, resonating deeply with the mission of the United States Catholic Mission Association (USCMA). Rooted in the Spirit, missionary disciples are called to live and share the transformative power of encountering Christ in the ordinary moments of life. As we commence the Jubilee Year of Hope in 2025, these lessons inspire us to renew our commitment to mission and live as faith leaders grounded in God’s will.
Encounter and Call: The Beginning of Discipleship Missionary discipleship begins with an encounter—a profound moment of first love with Jesus, much like the disciples’ experience in John 1:35–41. This encounter transforms hearts and sets believers on a lifelong journey of learning and mission.
USCMA supports this transformative path by providing opportunities for faith leaders to deepen their relationship with Christ through networking, formation, and advocacy. This journey is not a one-time event but a continuous call to be living witnesses of the Gospel.
Call to Action: Reflect on your first encounter with Christ. How has it shaped your role as a faith leader? Renew your commitment to deepening that relationship and sharing it with others. Pentecost: The Spirit That Sends Us Forth The disciples’ fear in locked rooms (John 20:19–22) mirrors modern challenges, yet their encounter with the risen Christ and the Spirit at Pentecost empowered them to boldly proclaim the Gospel. This Spirit-driven courage is at the heart of missionary discipleship, calling us to: 1.Proclaim God's unconditional love. 2.Live the Gospel authentically. 3.Radiate the joy of Christ’s presence. 4.Welcome and heal the weak. 5.Remain rooted in Christ amid trials. 6.Respond with bold courage. 7.Move outward to engage others.
Call to Action: Let Pentecost inspire you to break through fear and complacency. How can you live and proclaim the Gospel with boldness today?
Opening Mass with delegates from across the Americas
A Unified, Hope-Filled Presence Across the Americas CAM 6 highlighted the diversity and richness of missionary disciples across the Americas, from bustling cities to marginalized communities. Central and South American theologians emphasized integral missions—addressing spiritual, social, and cultural needs rooted in the Gospel. These insights challenge us to respond courageously to global and local realities, fostering hope and unity.
Call to Action: Consider how your mission work contributes to this unified Church. How can you collaborate with others to bring hope and healing to your community and beyond? Rekindling the Fire for Mission Missionary discipleship is not static; it is fueled by an ongoing encounter with Christ. CAM 6 reignited the flame, reminding us that the Church’s mission is dynamic, always moving “to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8).
USCMA plays a vital role by equipping faith leaders with resources and connections to sustain this fire and inspire others. The Jubilee Year calls us to recommit to Jesus’ mission, embracing the Spirit's transformative power.
Call to Action: How is the Spirit calling you to rekindle your fire for mission? Take the first step today—pray, act, and inspire others to join you in this journey.
Conclusion: Everything Begins with the Spirit CAM 6 reminds us that the Spirit initiates, sustains, and propels our mission. The Jubilee of 2025 is not merely a celebration but a decisive moment to recommit to God’s mission, to embody a Church that heals, inspires hope, and burns brightly with Christ's love. As president of USCMA, it is my prayer that applying these lessons from CAM 6 will inspire each of us to be true beacons of hope in the world. Let this Jubilee ignite a transformative movement, sending us forth as bold, Spirit-filled disciples ready to share Christ’s love and renew the world. Antoinette Mensah, Ph.D., is director of the Office of World Mission / Society for the Propagation of the Faith for the Archdiocese of Milwaukee and president of the USCMA Board.