THIS MONTH'S CHALLENGE

MARCH 2023

But Jesus came and touched them, saying, “Rise, and do not be afraid.” (Gospel for March 5, Mt 17:7)

“Do not be afraid” — we read these words often in Scripture. Here, Jesus speaks to the apostles, awestruck at his Transfiguration. In a similar way, the angel told St. Joseph, “Do not be afraid” to take Mary, who had conceived the Christ Child, as his wife. The knowledge that God is with us should encourage and strengthen us. Sometimes, as with the apostles, we are overwhelmed by the mysteries of faith; at other times the challenges of living our faith in a secular culture seem daunting. Yet Christ continually empowers us as he calls us: “Rise, and do not be afraid.”

Challenge by Supreme Chaplain Archbishop William E. Lori:

This month, in which we celebrate the feast of St. Joseph, I challenge you to watch the documentary St. Joseph: Our Spiritual Father (available for free at kofc.org/stjoseph), reflecting on St. Joseph’s courage. Second, I challenge you to participate in the Faith in Action Pilgrim Icon program, which features an icon of St. Joseph.

Questions for Reflection:

What are you afraid of? Do your fears prevent you from fully following God’s will in your life? How can you imitate the courage of St. Joseph?