John the Baptist and Our Call to Discipleship

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

On Saturday, the Church celebrated the Memorial of the Passion of St. John the Baptist. This feast prepares us for Sunday’s Gospel (Matthew 16:21–27), and together they offer a single, challenging message: every Christian is called to witness to Christ with courage, integrity, and generous love.

​John the Baptist is the first great witness of the New Covenant. His whole life pointed to Jesus. He spoke the truth with humility, and he gave his life rather than abandon the mission God entrusted to him. His passion asks each of us: Do my words and actions lead others to Christ? Do I speak the truth with charity? Am I willing to sacrifice comfort or approval for the Gospel?

In Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus reveals the path He will walk - suffering, death, and resurrection - and tells His disciples that this path must become theirs: “If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me.” Jesus does not ask us to seek suffering. He asks us to love so deeply that we are willing to give of ourselves for what is true and good.

Together, John’s witness and Jesus’ teaching show that Christian fidelity is costly but fruitful. John loses his life, yet his testimony strengthens the Church. Jesus gives His life, and through His cross the world is redeemed. Every moment we choose Christ over convenience becomes part of God’s saving work.

In our parish, witness is not only for prophets and martyrs. It belongs to parents who teach their children to pray, workers who act with honesty, parishioners who serve quietly, those who forgive when it is difficult, and anyone who chooses the Gospel when the world offers an easier path. Like John, we are called to point beyond ourselves. Like the disciples, we are called to follow Christ with courage.

May this week strengthen us to be humble, steadfast, and joyful witnesses, so that through our lives others may come to know Jesus Christ, the Lord.

I wish you a grace-filled week!

Fr. Nick Apetorgbor