Faith, Sacrifice, and Generosity in Missionary Work
Summary
For many years, I have served as a missionary priest in Africa, witnessing firsthand the remarkable growth and depth of faith among the people there. In the villages, even the smallest, humblest churches—often built from mud bricks with grass roofs—cannot contain the crowds who gather, sometimes even on weekdays, to worship and seek Christ. The faithful walk long, difficult roads, sometimes through forests and over rough terrain, simply to be present for Mass, sacraments, and catechesis. Their enthusiasm and dedication are a constant source of inspiration and joy, reminding me that true faith is not about comfort or convenience, but about a deep longing for God and a willingness to make sacrifices for Him.
Our missionary congregation, the Missionaries of St. Francis de Sales, has a long history of serving in over 25 countries, with a special focus on education and priestly formation. In Africa, we have established schools for poor children and are blessed with many seminarians and priests, all of whom are committed to spreading the Gospel and serving their communities. However, the economic challenges faced by these communities are significant. Most villages cannot afford to build solid, decent churches where the faithful can gather, learn, and celebrate the sacraments in dignity.
This is why I invite you to join in this mission. By supporting the construction of village churches, you are not only providing a physical space for worship, but also participating in the evangelization of entire communities. Your generosity enables the faithful in Africa to receive the sacraments, grow in their knowledge of Christ, and live out their Christian calling. In doing so, you fulfill Christ’s command to go out into the world and proclaim the Gospel, and you become a channel of God’s blessings—not only for those far away, but also for your own life and family. May God bless your open hearts and all that you do in His name.
Key Takeaways
- The hunger for Christ in the African villages is profound, with people willing to endure hardship and discomfort just to gather for worship. Their faith is not hindered by material poverty or difficult circumstances, but is instead deepened by their longing for God and their willingness to make sacrifices for Him. This challenges us to examine our own priorities and the depth of our desire for Christ. [01:13]
- True community is built not on the size or beauty of a building, but on the shared commitment to seek God together. Even when churches are small and simple, the unity and enthusiasm of the faithful transform these spaces into places of profound encounter with God. The physical structure is secondary to the spiritual reality that is created when believers gather in faith. [02:52]
- The mission of the Church is not limited by geography; it is a call to reach out beyond our own comfort zones and support the growth of faith wherever it is needed. By participating in the building of churches and supporting missionary work, we become co-workers in the spread of the Gospel, fulfilling Christ’s command to proclaim His word to all nations. [04:31]
- Generosity in supporting the needs of others is a concrete way to live out the Gospel. When we give from our abundance to help those in need, especially in the context of building up the Church, we become instruments of God’s grace and blessing. Our giving is not just a financial transaction, but a spiritual act that connects us to the global body of Christ. [04:31]
- The blessings that flow from generosity are not one-sided; as we help others encounter Christ, we ourselves are drawn deeper into God’s love and receive His grace in our own lives. The act of giving, especially for the sake of the Gospel, opens our hearts to God’s work and brings spiritual fruit to our families and communities. [04:31]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[00:25] - Missionary Life in Africa
[01:13] - Faith and Sacrifice in Village Churches
[02:00] - Celebrating Mass Under the Trees
[02:52] - The Joy of Serving Faithful Communities
[03:30] - The Missionaries of St. Francis de Sales
[04:00] - Education and Priestly Formation
[04:31] - The Need for Solid Church Structures
[05:00] - The Call for Generosity
[05:30] - Evangelization Through Giving
[06:00] - Blessings for Generous Hearts
[06:30] - Closing Prayer and Blessing
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
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### Bible Reading
1. Matthew 28:19-20 (ESV)
> Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.
2. 2 Corinthians 9:7-8 (ESV)
> Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.
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### Observation Questions
1. What are some of the sacrifices people in African villages make to attend church and receive the sacraments? [01:13]
2. According to the sermon, what is the main reason the village churches are often too small for the crowds? [01:13]
3. What kinds of ministries and services do the Missionaries of St. Francis de Sales provide in Africa? [04:31]
4. What does the pastor say happens when people in other countries give to help build churches in Africa? [04:31]
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### Interpretation Questions
1. Why does the pastor say that true faith is not about comfort or convenience, but about a deep longing for God and a willingness to make sacrifices? How does this challenge our own approach to faith? [01:13]
2. The sermon mentions that the physical structure of the church is secondary to the spiritual reality created when believers gather. What does this mean for how we view our own church buildings and gatherings? [02:52]
3. How does supporting the building of churches in Africa connect us to the mission Jesus gave in Matthew 28:19-20? [04:31]
4. The pastor says that generosity is not just a financial transaction, but a spiritual act that brings blessings to both the giver and the receiver. What might this look like in our own lives? [04:31]
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### Application Questions
1. The people in the African villages walk long, difficult roads and spend all day at church, even when it’s uncomfortable. What is one area of your life where you could make a sacrifice to seek God more deeply? [01:13]
2. Think about your own church experience. Do you ever take for granted the comfort and convenience of your church building? How might your attitude change if you had to worship in a much simpler or less comfortable place? [02:52]
3. The pastor describes the unity and enthusiasm of the faithful in Africa, even in small, humble churches. What is one way you could help build a stronger sense of unity and enthusiasm in your own church community? [02:52]
4. The sermon invites us to support the building of churches in Africa. What is one practical step you could take this month to support missions—whether through giving, prayer, or sharing the need with others? [04:31]
5. When you give to support others, do you see it as just a donation, or as a way to participate in God’s work? How could you remind yourself that your generosity is a spiritual act? [04:31]
6. The pastor says that blessings flow both ways when we give. Can you think of a time when helping someone else brought unexpected blessings into your own life? How did that experience affect your faith? [04:31]
7. Jesus commands us to “go and make disciples of all nations.” What is one way you can be part of this mission, even if you never travel to another country? [04:31]
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Devotional
Day 1: Proclaiming the Gospel to All Nations
Jesus calls us to go out and share His word.
"And he said to them, 'Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.'" (Mark 16:15, ESV)
The call to evangelize is not limited by geography or circumstance; it is a command for every believer to participate in spreading the good news of Jesus Christ. Whether by traveling, supporting missions, or sharing faith in daily life, each act of generosity and witness helps others encounter Christ and grow in faith. When you support the building of churches or the education of future leaders, you are actively participating in this great commission, helping to bring the light of Christ to places where it is most needed. [05:30]
Reflection: In what specific way can you help share the gospel with someone beyond your immediate community this week—through prayer, giving, or a personal conversation?
Day 2: The Power of Faithful Community
A community united in faith can overcome any obstacle.
"And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." (Hebrews 10:24-25, ESV)
In the villages described, believers gather with great enthusiasm, often overcoming difficult journeys and humble circumstances, to worship together and receive the sacraments. Their dedication to community and worship, even when resources are scarce, demonstrates the strength and beauty of a faith-filled community. When believers come together, they encourage one another, grow in holiness, and become a powerful witness to the world. [01:13]
Reflection: How can you encourage and support your faith community this week, especially someone who may feel isolated or discouraged?
Day 3: Generosity as a Form of Evangelization
Your generosity can bring Christ to others and bless your own life.
"Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." (2 Corinthians 9:7, ESV)
Giving is not just about meeting material needs; it is a spiritual act that extends the reach of the gospel. When you give to support the building of churches or the education of future priests, you are helping to create spaces where people can encounter Christ, receive the sacraments, and grow in faith. Your generosity becomes a channel of God's blessing, both for those who receive and for you as the giver. [04:31]
Reflection: What is one area where you can give generously this week—of your time, resources, or talents—to help others experience God’s love?
Day 4: Enduring Hardship for the Sake of Christ
Faith enables us to persevere joyfully through challenges.
"Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness." (James 1:2-3, ESV)
The journey to the village churches is often long and difficult, yet the faithful do not let hardship deter them from worship and community. Their perseverance is fueled by a deep desire to know Christ and live according to His teachings. When faced with obstacles, faith gives strength and transforms sacrifice into joy, reminding us that God is present in every step of the journey. [02:52]
Reflection: What challenge are you facing right now that you can offer to God, asking Him to use it to strengthen your faith and bless others?
Day 5: Building a Foundation for Future Generations
Investing in faith formation shapes the Church of tomorrow.
"Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it." (Proverbs 22:6, ESV)
Supporting the education of youth and the formation of future priests is an investment in the future of the Church. By providing resources for catechesis, sacraments, and solid church structures, you help ensure that the next generation will have the foundation they need to grow in faith and lead others to Christ. Your support today plants seeds that will bear fruit for years to come. [04:31]
Reflection: Who is a young person or future leader you can encourage or support in their faith journey this week?
Quotes
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