You may have heard of mystics like St. John of the Cross and St. Teresa of Avila, but what you may not know is that all Christians are called to be mystics.
The Catechism states:
“Spiritual progress tends toward ever more intimate union with Christ. This union is called ‘mystical’ because it participates in the mystery of Christ through the sacraments – ‘the holy mysteries’ – and, in him, in the mystery of the Holy Trinity. God calls us all to this intimate union with him, even if the special graces or extraordinary signs of this mystical life are granted only to some for the sake of manifesting the gratuitous gift given to all.
The way of perfection passes by way of the Cross. There is no holiness without renunciation and spiritual battle.”
CCC 2014-15
Every Christian is called to holiness, therefore every Christian is called to be perfect.
All Christians are also called by Christ to be one with him, because union with Christ is essential to holiness. Pope St. John Paul II talked about the three paths to holiness:
- the purgative way, where God is burning away the sins in us
- the illuminative way, where we strive to live a life of virtue
- the unitive way, where we see God everywhere and live for union with him.
We are called to be intimate with God, to live the unitive way. This perfect union may not seem possible, but with God all things are possible.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
Philippians 4:6
Meet Jackie and Bobby Angel
Jackie Francois Angel is a full-time worship leader and speaker. Bobby Angel is a campus minister and theology teacher at a Catholic high school. Married in 2013, they have four beautiful children and strive to grow in holiness each day!
