In Acts 10 we read the story of Cornelius. He was a centurion captain in the Roman Empire’s Italian regiment, and he was assigned to Caesarea. He had left paganism and came to believe in God through his interactions with the Jews. A religious and God-fearing man, he gave alms and did good works. He had a vision of an angel who told him his prayers were answered and to send for Peter. At the same time, Peter had a vision of his own. The two met shortly thereafter, and Cornelius became the first Gentile accepted into the early Church. From here, tradition says that Cornelius left the army and went with Peter. He proclaimed the Gospel, converted many, and St. Peter made him the first bishop of Caesarea.
CHALLENGE
St. Cornelius the Centurion responded to God’s call and he, his entire household, and all of his family and friends who were gathered—all the men, women, and children—were baptized and brought into the Church. The OCIA program at your parish accompanies and prepares people to follow St. Cornelius. Contact your parish today and see how you can help the catechumens.
