[Mark J Hornbacher]

Sounds good. Ask, and you shall receive!

[Mark J Hornbacher]

You make really good points, Nicki. It’s important to discern what is called for in the situation with the person in front of you. But as was said in the material from the course, there is not only one way to give a testimony. You can tell your testimony according to a particular theme or tell a mini-testimony — not your whole story but a part of it that you think would resonate with the person you’re sharing it with. Maybe that is something to consider doing in these kinds of circumstances.

Also remember that because the Holy Spirit is the primary evangelist, we shouldn’t over-worry about what we say (though I am not saying that that is what you’re doing. Just to be careful of that trap).

[Mark J Hornbacher]

I would suggest showing them kindness through reaching out in friendship, and then keeping up that more engaged friendship. Visits, offering help with things, giving a gift, etc. Think the first two steps of our evangelization method: listen and befriend. And be real, be authentic. That requires patience and a certain detachment. Make sense?

[Mark J Hornbacher]

Hi Nicki,

I love the honesty. No, you’re not required to follow some specific style. How would you rather approach it? What do you think “finding your voice” would entail?

Let’s explore this a bit here in the forum, if you don’t mind. I think it could be helpful for all of us.

[Mark J Hornbacher]

Great story, Christopher! Keep praying for that guy! Also, since he seems to be someone you can talk to somewhat regularly if you want (he lives near you… am I wrong?) then I’d advise that you do so, but don’t feel the need to talk religion. Focus on listening and befriending him. If he comes to trust and appreciate you more, then he may remember your earlier talk about religion and ask you questions or bring it up again.

I’m not sure why the text was different (at least in the core of the instructions). I just fixed the problem. Peace!

[Mark J Hornbacher]

“How do we get around [the relativism of the age]?” Here’s a thought. I like to explain to people the Christian and Catholic alternative to relativism — the universality of God’s offer of grace and salvation, and the presence of God in all places and times, calling all people to himself.

Explain to them the principle of non-contradiction, and how not all religions can therefore be equally true. Christ is either the unique Son of God like he and his apostles claimed, or he is not.

Also explain how, nevertheless, He died for all and gives grace for salvation for all. Use the account of St Paul at the Areopagus in Acts to illustrate how God is the God of all and is near to all.

There is a lot more that could be said along these lines. It is important to keep in mind that even when people expound errors, like relativism, there is almost always some truth that can be used to counter it, which addresses the basic concern behind the error. Sometimes the person will be content and open to more, upon hearing that truth explained.

[Mark J Hornbacher]

Thank you for the very thoughtful and detailed sharing here. Many people want to be “over with” exes; your continued active concern for him is commendable!

[Mark J Hornbacher]

Where are you in the process of starting the SPSE team?

[Mark J Hornbacher]

Not surprised! Those are among the core prayers of the Church — two of them liturgy, and the third developed from liturgy. Most powerful for me as well.

[Mark J Hornbacher]

Hi Carlos,

What happened during daily Mass recently?

[Mark J Hornbacher]

Hello Carlos!

It’s good to see you here in the forums! I hope that you are doing well.

How often do you see Jason?

[Mark J Hornbacher]

Nicki,

Wonderful! Has the Lord revealed to you also other ways to show him kindness, to serve him?

Also, how did you return to the Church from being a “raving agnostic who constantly insulted the Catholic Church”?

[Mark J Hornbacher]

Another important thing that counters the “check-list mentality” is to focus in your prayer on simply being a beloved little child in the presence of your Father. Spend time in silence like this before Him. Recite your regular prayers with this in mind, and with the intention of these prayers being loving responses to the love of your good good Father, to please Him.

[Mark J Hornbacher]

On the face of it, it sounds like a very good example of evangelization! Keep up the prayer for them, and be ready for the next encounters with them, and talk to the Lord about your hopes for them. And listen to the Holy Spirit for how He directs you. The Lord is faithful and will not lead you astray. Keep up the good work!

[Mark J Hornbacher]

I think that the most important thing in getting “the perfect moment” in evangelization is learning to hear and submit to the Holy Spirit and His subtle direction. Paradoxically, doing this requires a good deal of letting go of speaking at the “perfect moment.” A healthy life of prayer is so important to this, living as a little son or daughter of God. I’m very much still a learner in this, but I’ve experienced it enough to know what I’m seeking. The Lord is SO good.

[Author]

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