We are only Christians if we encounter Christ … Only in this personal relationship with Christ, only in this encounter with the Risen One do we truly become Christians … Therefore let us pray to the Lord to illumine us, to grant us an encounter with his presence in our world, and thus to grant us a lively faith, an open heart and great love for all, which is capable of renewing the world.
Three words sum up what we seek as our desired future: ENCOUNTER, MINISTRY and WITNESS.We are a very different diocese than when we started this plan. After listening to people throughout the Diocese of Austin we recognized a deep hunger for an encounter with Jesus Christ. We focused on this encounter and we were led to a powerful transformation individually and as a Catholic community. Through this encounter we put Jesus Christ at the center of our lives; the value of which cannot be underestimated.
This encounter with Jesus Christ also transformed our approach to ministry. Our parishes have become highly collaborative. We moved from a mentality where we were focused solely on our own needs to creating deep partnerships. Our diocesan offces are service-oriented, focused on supporting our parishes and schools. These changes have allowed us to become profound missionary disciples and witnesses to our faith throughout Central Texas. We are able to share our faith within our neighborhoods and communities, particularly to inactive Catholics, to the poor and the disadvantaged, and to all those who need the message of the Gospel.
The results are extraordinary. We see a deepening and new energy in our own faith lives. There are more people participating in Sunday Mass and the sacraments. Our parish activities are full of people and our adult prayer groups, retreats and Bible studies are signs of the vitality of our local Church. There is a noticeable increase in youth and young adults who are excited about their faith and the Church. People from every cultural group feel welcome and are highly visible in pastoral leadership positions. Our Catholic Schools have full enrollments and are able to welcome families from all economic levels. Above all, the people of Central Texas are aware of the wonderful presence and good works of the Catholic community. Our encounter has transformed us!