beforegethsemane

04/21/2025

“Our ethnic diversity is our wealth... It is only in unity, through conversion of hearts and reconciliation, that we will be able to help our country to develop on all levels.”
— Evangelii Gaudium, Pope Francis, 2013, Chapter 4, #230

At the Before Gethsemane Initiative, we hold these words close to our mission. Pope Francis consistently called the Church to confront division, heal wounds, and recognize the beauty and strength found in every culture and community. His leadership reminded us that the work of justice and reconciliation is not optional—it is central to the Gospel.

We give thanks for Pope Francis’ courageous witness, his deep pastoral heart, and his unwavering commitment to a Church that looks like heaven: diverse, united, and merciful.

May we honor his legacy by continuing the work of conversion, unity, and love.

Requiescat in pace, Holy Father.

02/11/2025

This morning Pope Francis released a letter to the Bishops of the United States of America.

Please let his words be a reminder for us to pray for those who work in upholding the dignity of the human person especially keeping in mind those who are migrants and refugees.

We have taken excerpts from his letter shared from the USCCB. Please read the letter in full at

https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/letters/2025/documents/20250210-lettera-vescovi-usa.html

02/01/2025

On the first day of black history month we reflect on how black history is not dull and full of strife but rather a wonderfully complex and full history filled with vibrancy and dynamic contributions to both culture and society as a whole. We praise God for the gift of our black brothers and sisters from all across the world.

The resilience, strength, vulnerability, and boldness of our brothers and sisters will continue to inspire us for years to come.

Happy black history month!

12/25/2024

On Christmas Day, we celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ, who brings light and salvation to the world.

We will be praying in a special way for you and yours today!

12/15/2024

In the final part of our series, we reflect on everything we’ve learned, experienced, and where we are going. Thank you for joining us on this journey!

12/08/2024

Today, we celebrate the Immaculate Conception of Mary, a powerful symbol of purity and grace. Let her example lead us to a deeper relationship with Christ.

12/01/2024

Here’s Part 1 of our video series with our Co-Directors and former President of our board where we share where we are and what we are up to! Can't wait to share what’s next!

11/03/2024

Happy feast day of St.Martin de Porres!

St. Martin de Porres, known for his humility and love for the poor, teaches us the power of small acts of kindness. 'Everything, even sweeping, scraping vegetables, weeding a garden and waiting on the sick could be a prayer if it were offered to God.' – St. Martin de Porres.

11/01/2024

Today, we commemorate the anniversary of Economic Justice for All, the U.S. bishops’ pastoral letter that reminds us the economy must serve people, not the other way around. This document not only calls for fair wages and economic opportunities but also challenges us to address the racial inequalities that persist in our economic systems. The struggle for economic justice is deeply connected to the fight for racial justice. As we reflect on its teachings, let us work toward dismantling the barriers that disproportionately affect communities of color, ensuring that dignity, equality, and opportunity are accessible to all.

10/20/2024

On Catholic World Mission Sunday, we are reminded of our call to share the Gospel and serve those in need across the world. While we celebrate the good fruits of mission work—bringing faith, hope, and love to communities—we must also acknowledge the times when mission efforts have unintentionally caused harm, by imposing cultural norms or overlooking the dignity of local traditions. As we reflect, let us commit to mission work that respects the uniqueness of every community, rooted in justice, humility, and mutual respect. Together, we can build a world where faith uplifts without harming, and love truly transforms.

10/16/2024

Today, we celebrate the blessings of another year of service and community through BGI. We’ve taken time to pray, reflect, and work on our mission and vision as a team, and we’re excited to be back in this space with renewed energy. Through God’s grace, we have journeyed together, growing in faith and spreading His love. As we reflect on the past, we give thanks for the support and prayers of all who have walked with us. With trust in the Lord, we look forward to continuing His mission for many more years to come. May we always seek to glorify Him in all that we do.

03/14/2024

Pray for these inspiring young people!

A group of two dozen young Catholic pilgrims will walk thousands of miles across the United States this summer, carrying Jesus Christ in the Eucharist through city streets and the countryside, converging at the 2024 National Eucharistic Congress.

Collectively, the pilgrims will walk over 6,500 miles and will traverse four different routes, beginning on opposite sides of the country and meeting in Indianapolis for the National Eucharistic Congress July 17–21. Catholics throughout the U.S. are encouraged to register to join the pilgrims in walking short sections of the pilgrimages and joining in numerous other special events put on by their local diocese.

All between the ages of 19 and 29, the 24 “Perpetual Pilgrims” — six per route — have committed to giving up their summer and braving sun and rain to help the U.S. bishops rededicate the country to Christ in the Eucharist. Accompanied throughout the entire route by priest chaplains, the pilgrims will travel 10-15 miles each day, mostly on foot, while taking part in a minor Eucharistic procession.

Meet some of the young pilgrims who will be bringing Christ through your neighborhood this summer, beginning Pentecost weekend, May 17-19. https://bit.ly/43nYAVu