Pope’s Missionary intention for June

(June 01,2010) Pope Benedict XVI’s missionary intention for the Month of June is that the “Churches in Asia, a little flock among non-Christian populations, may communicate the Gospel well, and give joyful witness to their faith.” The Pope has called Asia the most important mission field of Christianity’s third millennium. As Asia is the most populated continent, it’s response to the Gospel will play a major role in determining the future of Christianity. But currently, there are great challenges to the spread of the faith in Asia. Today, only about 6% of Asians are Christian and in South Asia the estimate is only 2%. This explains why, the Pope sometimes refers to the churches of Asia as a “little flock”. He recognizes that the Christian population is not only small but also vulnerable Today, it is in Asia, where much of the persecution of Christians occurs. Many Christians in India, Iraq, China, Vietnam and Malaysia - are victims of violence, harassment and discrimination. Minorities have always faced difficulties everywhere, therefore most people want to blend in with those around them to avoid trouble. This human tendency works against evangelization. The Pope has asked for prayers for the “little flock “ of Asia. Heeding the Pope’s appeal, let us pray that they may live the faith with joy, in spite of the hostility they may experience as a result of it.