Brief Background:

Mark the Evangelist is one of the four Gospel writers and the author of the Gospel of Mark, the shortest and most fast-paced account of Jesus’ life and ministry. He was a close companion of St. Peter, and much of his Gospel reflects Peter’s firsthand experiences of Jesus. Mark also worked alongside St. Paul and St. Barnabas in the early Church, helping to spread the Good News to different communities. Tradition holds that he later founded the Church in Alexandria, Egypt, becoming a key figure in the growth of early Christianity. St. Mark is the patron saint of Venice, Italy, as well as writers, notaries, and journalists—those who communicate and share messages with others. His life reminds us of the importance of telling the story of Jesus boldly and faithfully, inviting others into that same story of faith.

REFLECTION:

Both readings today speak powerfully about what it means to respond to the call of Jesus—and the first step is not strength or confidence, but humility. As the saying goes, sometimes the first thing we have to do is “eat humble pie.” St. Peter reminds us, “Clothe yourselves with humility… for God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” Before we go out, before we lead, before we speak, we must recognize that the mission is not about us—it is about God and His work through us.

In the Gospel, Jesus sends His disciples out: “Go into the whole world and proclaim the Gospel.” What’s striking is that He sends imperfect people—those who doubted, those who failed, those who were still figuring things out. Yet He still calls them. Why? Because humility creates space for God to act. The disciples go not in their own power, but trusting that the Lord works with them.

This speaks directly to our life in a parish and school community. We are all called—first by God, but also through those placed in leadership over us: pastors, principals, teachers, and leaders who entrust us with responsibilities. Sometimes that call stretches us, challenges us, or even humbles us. And yes, sometimes it requires us to “eat humble pie”—to let go of ego, pride, or the need to be in control.

But this kind of humility is not about being silent or passive. It is not about ignoring the truth or failing to do what is right. True humility is knowing what is good—not just for ourselves, but for the good of the community and the mission entrusted to us. It allows us to listen, to discern, and when needed, to speak up—not out of pride, but out of love for truth and for others. It also means being open to guidance, correction, and growth.

At the same time, humility also requires honesty with ourselves. If we find that pride is getting in the way—if we are unwilling to listen, unwilling to grow, or unwilling to serve the mission over ourselves—then perhaps the most humble thing we can do is to step aside and allow others to hear and answer the call. The mission of Christ is bigger than any one of us.

St. Peter also tells us, “Cast all your worries upon Him because He cares for you.” That is part of humility too—trusting that God is in control, even when we are not. In a parish and school, where many roles and personalities come together, this trust is essential. We are not working alone; we are working together, rooted in Christ.



So the call of Jesus begins here: be humble, be open, be willing. Be ready to “eat humble pie” when needed—not to shrink back, but to step forward with the right heart. And from that place, go—serve, lead, teach, and witness—knowing that it is ultimately the Lord who works with us, building up His Church through each one of us.