We at the community mission strive to live the life of Christ in our present world following the ancient faith handed down by the apostles and the early church.  We see our mission to be active members in living and spreading the love and mercy of God.  Jesus taught us that mankind not only receives and experiences the mercy of God, but we are also called ‘to practice mercy’ towards others;  “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain Mercy.” _{Matt 5:7}   Our community sees these words as a call to action, to be merciful in various ways regardless of the person in need.  We are called not only to proclaim the Good News, but to ”LIVE” the Good News of Christ’s redeeming love for the world.  Our works fall in two areas of service:

First the Corporal works of mercy which are:

• Give drink to the thirsty
• Feed the hungry
• Clothed the naked
• Shelter the homeless
• Comfort the imprisoned
• Visit the sick
• Bury the dead

Second is the spiritual works of mercy which are:

• Admonish the lost ( Help bring reconciliation and hope for the hopeless )
• Instruct the uninformed
• Counsel the doubtful
• Comfort the sorrowful
• Be patient and love our enemies
• Forgive offenses
• Pray for the living and the dead

In performing these acts of mercy we fulfill the two commands Christ taught us, to love God with all of our hearts, mind, and soul; and to love our neighbor as ourselves;  but it is not just a matter of 'fulfilling the law', it must also become an act of love and revelation.  A revelation that Jesus' presence is recognized in the poor. _{Matt 25:40}   In understanding this mystery, we can start to see the full meaning of His words, ”The poor you will always have with you, but you do not always have me.” _{John 12:8}   He is challenging us to recognize his suffering in all of humanity, even in the most needy of our world.  We welcome all who would like to join us in this mission.

God Bless!

Fr. Xavier Rodriguez S.T.L.