Too often, we think of evangelization as something done by either professionals or fanatics. We can’t see ourselves going door-to-door or walking up to people and asking them if they’ve been saved or have encountered Christ. But there are other ways of evangelizing in our everyday lives. In my book, Under the Influence of Jesus: The Transforming Experience of Encountering Christ, I talk about a evangelizing strategy that I refer to as “spiritual residue”—leaving traces and hints of our Catholic faith. For example:
- Post on social media or in your office space a picture or a quote from a saint that you find inspiring.
- Keep a reminder of your faith in your workspace, and be prepared to explain its significance to those who inquire.
- Leave some literature, such as a parish bulletin, lying around your desk at work or a table at home—ideally something that highlights an activity you are involved in that brings the nearness of God to others.
- Carry with you or wear a simple symbol of your faith, such as a medal, a cross, a pin, or a scapular.
I like to think of this as “everyday evangelization.” Perhaps one of the greatest minds in the area of everyday evangelization belongs to my friend and Loyola Press author, Julianne Stanz, as she explores in her book, Start with Jesus: How Everyday Disciples Will Renew the Church. Now you have the opportunity to receive ten simple Everyday Evangelization ideas through our e-mail series. This series is for anyone who’s wondered, Where do I start with evangelization?
Sign up to receive an “Everyday Evangelization” idea from Julianne Stanz each week in your inbox, and use these ideas as a way to make evangelization part of your life in 2021!
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