The Mission Carries Us Forward

This article is part two of the article on personality-driven ministry versus mission-driven ministry, which appeared in last week’s Bulletin (May 17). So now we’re looking at what “mission-driven” is.

In SLM parish life, there is a difference between driving the mission and being carried by the mission. Some people try to “push” the mission forward through force of personality, effort, or control. Others try to “pull” the mission by gathering followers around themselves, becoming the center of attention or influence, which becomes a personality-driven ministry. While both may begin with good intentions, the danger is that the mission can slowly become attached to a person rather than to Christ.

But there is another way: to ride the mission. To ride the mission means allowing the mission of Christ and His Church to carry us forward. Instead of making ourselves the focus, we become servants of something greater than ourselves. We stop asking, “How can I make this ministry succeed through me?” and begin asking, “Where is God leading His people, and how can I faithfully serve?” When we ride the mission, humility replaces ego. We become more willing to collaborate, to mentor others, to share responsibility, and even to step aside when needed. The mission continues because it belongs to Christ, not to any individual personality. The healthiest ministries are often led by people who are secure enough not to need recognition. They trust that the Holy Spirit is at work beyond themselves. They understand that they are not the destination—they are simply fellow disciples journeying with the Church. A mission-centered parish is not built on charisma alone, but on faithfulness, service, and continuity. The mission carries all of us together, generation after generation, always forward in Christ.