In this Sunday’s Gospel reading, Jesus calls His disciples to take up the cross and follow Him. True discipleship means self-denial, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to Christ’s mission, as exemplified by Fr. Gaetano Nicosia, who lived among lepers for 48 years. His life, like Christ’s, was a profound expression of love and service, offering a powerful example of following Jesus to the ultimate consequences.
Today’s Gospel challenges us to recognize the difference between knowing Jesus and believing in His mission. While Peter acknowledges Jesus as the Messiah, he resists the suffering that the mission entails. Like Peter, we may sometimes go against the values of the Gospel, even while claiming to follow Christ. Discipleship demands embracing God’s plans, not our own.
During his Apostolic Journey to Oceania, Pope Francis was warmly welcomed by the Catholic community of Vanimo, Papua New Guinea. His message of unity, support for missionaries, and care for creation resonated deeply with the local people, including the Indonesian Papuans who crossed the border to attend. This journey highlights the continued efforts of the Church in promoting faith, education, and well-being in this beautiful, yet remote region.