For this reason, I remind you to stir into flame the gift of God that you have through the imposition of my hands. For God did not give us a spirit of cowardice but rather of power and love and self-control. So do not be ashamed of your testimony to our Lord, nor of me, a prisoner for his sake; but bear your share of hardship for the Gospel with the strength that comes from God. (2 Tim 1:6-7)

The Pastoral Epistles, 1&2 Timothy and Titus, are written in Paul’s name. They contain some beautiful passages about ministry and about preaching the gospel in difficult times: “Bear your share of hardship for the Gospel.” St Charles and his companions were martyred at the end of the 19th century in Uganda. At a time when racism seems to be triumphant, we need to take courage from the words given to Saint Paul:

“I am not ashamed, for I know him in whom I have believed and am confident that he is able to guard what has been entrusted to me until that day.” (2 Tim 1:12)