“[This] program employs the means for spiritual transformation used by Jesus and the early church leaders. Chosen groups use this program, the Come, Lord Jesus! program, as an antidote to the harmful influences of the world and to be transformed into the image of Jesus.

Come, Lord Jesus! uses the most important scripture passages that the church deemed worthy to use for the Sunday readings of the liturgical year. With the help of our commentaries, participants read, study and pray over the upcoming Sunday readings. With the help of challenging discussion questions, groups meet weekly to ponder these passages and discuss them with one another. The spiritual enrichment participants receive from their deep insights into the word makes their attendance at Mass so much more meaningful.

The program goes beyond personal spiritual enrichment: It is oriented toward the apostolate, that is, preparing each person to be an evangelizer. Special scriptural passages on the urgency of proclaiming the Gospel are singled out for choral recitation during the meeting. The members share as to how they proclaimed the good news during the week. This method was used by Jesus. When the apostles returned from their mission, they reported to Him what they had said and done (Mk 6:30). After the resurrection, the apostles continued to meet and share with one another what God had done through them (Acts 14:27-28). I find that our lay members also need to be challenged and held accountable each week so as to encourage them to witness their faith as Jesus commanded us all to do (Acts 1:8). This program, equipped with the heart-to-heart prayer of Jesus, spiritual fellowship, and the transforming power of the word of God centered on the Sunday Eucharist, is a proven instrument for forming small faith communities in our Church. The program is easily coordinated by a pastor, associate, or zealous lay person. Each enthusiastic apostle can use it to begin and establish small faith communities in his or her area, like St. Paul did. When well formed, these established communities tend to grow strong and endure for years.” 

*(from the March 2016 Come, Lord Jesus! Newsletter)