How can we know the dancer from the dance?

William Butler Yeats

In Tuesdays with Morrie, author Mitch Albom describes his teacher Morrie Schwartz. Morrie had loved to dance, regardless of what kind of music was being played. In his health, he would go to a church in Harvard Square each Wednesday night for an event called “Dance Free,” which catered mainly to students and other young people. Morrie, a distinguished doctor of sociology, would go in sweat pants and a T-shirt, and dance all night until he was soaked with sweat.

It is in acts of intimacy that we come to define ourselves. Our commitments to partners, community, work are pieces which contribute to the puzzles of our life. Morrie was defined by his connection with young people, his enthusiasm, and his dancing.

Faith, love, and dancing are all acts of great intimacy. Those of us of faith understand that there is no greater love than the life and love that is offered on the behalf of another. We will not gain in our faith by holding our own small portion closely. Faith is gained when we share it. There is no more risk of intimacy than to share your faith with another.

The Love Languages of Discipleship constantly arouse mission, sending all the disciples of Christ to proclaim the Gospel.

In Evangelization, we continuously recognize the adage that true ministry duplicates itself. We share the faith with others so that they might share the faith with others still. Our motivation is not as strongly related to perpetuation of the faith. Our enthusiasm sustains the motivation for others. The enthusiasm of others also is a motivation for us.

In Catechesis, we both encourage and equip the disciple to be able to share. Our faith is so good that we are compelled to share it and thus must prepare ourselves accordingly. Catechesis assists them in effectively responding in faith (apologetics) when challenged about their faith freely chosen and discerned.