Some two years in development, the archdiocesan Commission for Missionary Disciples is ready to invite all to develop a deeply personal relationship with Jesus, while challenging others to do the same.
“As the Haitian mantra says, ‘Unity makes strength.’ It is true.”
“So who’s here?” Archbishop Perez asked as he smiled upon the congregation.
The church rang with pride as members of the congregation were invited to stand up and share their home country: “Burkina Faso! Togo! Indonesia ! Haiti! Korea! Nigeria! The Philippines! Cameroon! USA!”
After the conclusion of the Mass and an address by Archbishop Perez, PCMR young adult members called the congregation forward to receive a missionary cross, rosary and a young adult-themed prayer written by Imani Scott, all of which were blessed by the archbishop.
Williamina Lebaga concluded with a promise on behalf of the PCMR young adult group to “serve the church as joyful missionary disciples.”
By Shannon Sweeney • Posted December 16, 2020
Rejoicing, revival and renewal these themes celebrated by the worldwide church on Gaudete Sunday were especially evident at a Mass for young adults Sunday, Dec. 13 at St. James Church, Elkins Park.
The celebration was the third in a series of pilgrimage Masses sponsored by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia’s Office for Pastoral Care for Migrants and Refugees (PCMR) and coordinated by the office’s director, Assumption Sister Gertude Borres, and her enthusiastic team of PCMR young adult leaders representing multicultural Catholic communities throughout the archdiocese.
They include Williamina Lebaga, representing Cameroon; Taurean Whitfield and Imani Scutt, representing African Americans; Melissa and Yoline Scutt (Haiti); Dale Tan (Philippines) and Angela Dakyung Kim (Korea).