After Andrew met Jesus, "the first thing he did was seek out his brother Simon and tell him, 'We have found the Messiah!' " (Jn 1:41) With his first cast, Andrew caught not just a man but the fisher of men and women, Simon Peter. Andrew, on his first try at evangelism, caught the man who would later catch three thousand on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:41). Moreover, that was just the beginning. Because of this exceptional start, Andrew may have gotten a reputation for evangelism. When some Greeks wanted to see Jesus, "Philip went to tell Andrew" (Jn 11:22), as if Andrew were the expert in evangelism.

The Church introduces us to Andrew today so we may begin this Church year focused on our evangelistic responsibilities. Is there anyone you're called to tell about Jesus? Have you neglected to share the good news because of laziness or fear? Don't put it off for another day, hour, or minute. Right now, be an Andrew; tell a Peter about Jesus. "How can they believe unless they have heard of Him?" (Rm 10:14)

Rescript:  †Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Bishop-Elect, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, April 26, 2011 (for 10-1-2011 through 11-29-2011) and May 26, 2011 (for 11-30-2011)

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