THE JOY OF BEING MISSIONARY DISCIPLES TO ANNOUNCE THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST

At this time, with uncertainties in our hearts, we ask ourselves with Saint Thomas, “How can we know the way?” (Jn 14:5). Jesus answers us with the striking proposal, “I am the way and the truth and the life” (Jn 14:6). He is the true path to God the Father who, “so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life” (Jn 3:16). This is eternal life, “that they should know you, the only true God, and the one whom you sent, Jesus Christ” (Jn 17:3). Faith in Jesus as the Son of the Father is the gateway to life. As disciples of Jesus, we confess our faith with the words which Peter professed, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God” (Mt 16:16); “You have the words of eternal life” (Jn 6:68).

A Disciple of Jesus recognizes him as the first and greatest evangelist sent by God (cf. Lk 4:44) and the Gospel of God (cf. Rm 1:3). As children listen to the voice of their father, we want to listen to Jesus (cf. Lk 9:35) because He is the only teacher (cf. Mt 23:8). Therefore, we believe and announce the good news of Jesus Christ, the Son of God (cf Mk 1:1).

This fundamental principle moves us to consecrate our lives entirely to Jesus Christ, Our Lord, and Savior. We desire to know Him more in the gospels, to love Him more, and to serve Him and His Church.

THE PROCESS OF FORMATION AND CONSECRATION

The vocation and commitment to be disciples and missionaries of Jesus Christ today require a clear and determined Formation for its members. Thus proper Formation in the faith proves beneficial for all the baptized, regardless of the function carried out in the Church. We look to Jesus, the Master who personally formed his apostles and disciples and who gives us the method: “Come, and you will see” (Jn 1:39), “I am the way and the truth and the life” (Jn 14:6). With Him, we can develop the potentialities within individuals to form missionary disciples.
The formative itinerary to follow Jesus is rooted in the dynamic nature of the person and by the personal invitation of Jesus Christ, who calls his own by name. The Lord incited the deep aspirations of his disciples and drew them to himself, full of amazement. The result is a fascination that stems from our natural desire for fulfillment. The disciple is passionate about Christ, whom he recognizes as the teacher who leads and accompanies him.
We are following the model of other consecrations, such as the Total Consecration to Jesus through Mary from St. Louis-Marie de Montfort, which includes a preparation of 33 days.
The preparation for consecration consists of a virtual orientation (via Zoom), a weekly virtual meeting (for five weeks), daily Scripture reading and meditation, praying the rosary, fasting (every Wednesday), and participating in the sacraments, particularly the Eucharist and reconciliation, as often as possible.

Once consecrated, the I AM the 73rd disciple commits to reaching out to more souls and helping bring them to an Encounter with Jesus. First virtually in the implementation phase of I AM the 73rd and then at a parish level in the future.

As consecrated, the I AM the 73rd disciples and missionaries understand that they are now part of a lifestyle conformed to the heart of Jesus, becoming living testimonies of His mercy through service to others using their Time, Treasure, and Talents.
They have become new ambassadors of Jesus Christ who extend His Kingdom by inviting more souls to partake in the great joy of following and serving Jesus here on earth and one day in His eternal presence in Heaven.