Evangelizing Outreach / Anita Bardo

As evangelists, we are called to share the message of Christ with others

In Pope Francis’ apostolic exhortation “Evangelii Gaudium” (“The Joy of the Gospel”), we are reminded that the Church must be “permanently in a state of mission.”

Evangelization is not a ministry or a seasonal program; it is the reason why the Church exists. Through the sacrament of baptism, we must embrace our call to share the Good News with our families, workplace and in our communities; we cannot remain silent.

Therefore, how does one embrace their call and elevate their spiritual discipleship journey?

Your spiritual discipleship journey begins by having clear intentions in mind about what you seek.

Spend time in quiet reflection or meditative prayer to discern God’s voice within you. Practicing kindness and compassion in your daily life helps deepen your understanding, which could bring awareness to your path and purpose.

As I reflect on my own spiritual journey, I often think about my growth and a deeper awareness of my personal challenges. As I learn to be honest about what I can and cannot handle, my faith becomes a guide for me to discern where God is calling me next. This process for me involves taking time to pause, examine my experiences, and listen intentionally to my inner voice, God. Have you ever paused to reflect on your own path and asked yourself where your faith might be leading you?

During this Lenten season, we have an opportunity to reflect on Jesus’ journey to the cross. What weighs us down, what crosses are we carrying? Each day our journey evolves, growing toward being grounded, patient and intentional. Each day is an opportunity to learn and unlearn and connect with others.

Additionally, in the archdiocesan Office of Evangelization, I’ve encountered many beautiful people, whom I consider amazing friends, who have challenged me, prayed with and for me and encouraged me along the way.

Outside of the office, I’ve been afforded many opportunities to speak at various parishes and groups about my own journey. These opportunities are a way for me to step out in faith and share the good news of Jesus Christ. I want to tell people how he has changed my life for the better.

When I talk about my experiences, I feel hope and joy, and I believe it can help others, too. Each chance I get to speak and share is a blessing, and I am grateful for the chance to make a difference.

In an effort to be more intentional in providing opportunities for parishes, laity and leaders in central and southern Indiana, the Office of Evangelization will hold an Evangelization Workshop titled “Elevate your Spiritual Discipleship Journey” from 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. on Saturday, April 25, at Holy Spirit Parish, 7243 E. 10th St., in Indianapolis, where facilitator Meg Hunter-Kilmer will lead us in those intentional discussions, prayer and reflection. To sign up, go to tinyurl.com/Evang101-2026. The cost is $30. Talk with your pastor about assessing the cost to the parish. The cost can also be covered by credit card.

At the end of the day, our main goal is clear: we want to share the message of Christ with others. This means taking time to talk with people in the pews, in our families and communities, and to intentionally build those friendships daily.

There are still many people who haven’t heard about Christ or felt his love, so it’s important for us to reach out to them. This mission is all about spreading kindness and hope to everyone we meet—hope for a joyful life on Earth and hope for the eternal joy of heaven, made possible by the suffering, death and resurrection of Jesus.
 

(Anita Bardo is archdiocesan coordinator of evangelization and discipleship. She can be reached at abardo@archindy.org.) †