December 3: Feast of St. Francis Xavier

Jesus summoned his disciples and said, “My heart is moved with pity for the crowd, for they have been with me now for three days and have nothing to eat. I do not want to send them away hungry, for fear they may collapse on the way.” – Mt 15:32 

In our lives, whether Christian or not, we always need compassion for ourselves through others, and for us to have compassion for others. This is why, especially during this time of Advent, Jesus invites us to be compassionate in the suffering of others. Compassion, according to the Bible, is a deep sensitivity to the suffering of others, a strong emotional connection that compels us to relieve and help, much like a parent does for their child. In this difficult time, the Catholic Church, our mother, invites us to prayer, contemplation, and acts of fraternity, such as serving others and helping others, in order to rekindle the desire for God and welcome the “coming” of the Savior. 

Apart from that, today, December 3, the entire congregation celebrates the feast of the great Missionary Saint Francis Xavier, our patron saint of the congregation. 

The missionary words of Saint Francis Xavier are characterized by a passionate call to evangelization, a deep concern for the spiritual well-being of unreached peoples, and an unwavering commitment to spreading the Christian faith, often expressed through direct appeals for more missionaries and detailed accounts of his efforts to teach basic Christian principles. He was always quick to say, “Woe to me if I don’t preach the Gospel,” emphasizing his deep conviction and sense of urgency. 

Eternal God, lead me on the right path so that, in contemplating You, I may always be ready to serve others while compassionating them for Your glory and Your Love following the example of Jesus our brother and our holy Patron Francis Xavier. You who live and reign forever and ever. Amen. 

Brother Hubert Mulenga, CFX