“I dream of a ‘missionary option,’ that is, a missionary impulse capable of transforming everything…Wherever the need for the light and the life of the Risen Christ is greatest, it will want to be there. To make this missionary impulse ever more focused, generous and fruitful, I encourage each particular Church to undertake a resolute process of discernment, purification and reform. Yet the principle aim of these participatory processes should not be ecclesiastical organization but rather the missionary aspiration of reaching everyone.”
– Pope Francis, selections from Evangelii Gaudium 27, 30-31
The Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA has collaborated with Evangelical Catholic to bring forth the Reach More movement as a response to undertaking the dream of Pope Francis’ “missionary option.”
From 2018-2021, the AMS supported Reach More training groups at the chapels on ten military installations. COVID brought unique challenges, but also unique opportunities that inspired the transition of the training from the chapel to the archdiocesan level and the hiring of Missionary Discipleship Trainers to provide accompaniment and mentorship to Catholic service members and their spouses.
The 12-week Reach More training is now available virtually, with upwards of four sessions offered per year. All are welcome to participate in the movement, but preferential option is maintained for young adults – 80% of the active duty forces are under the age of 35.
Ready to learn more or sign up for the next session? Contact Kim and Madeline now at ReachMore@milarch.org
Meet the Missionary Discipleship Trainers
Meet Kim Colby! Kim is a wife and convert to Holy Mother Church. In 2014, Kim was brought into the Church during the Easter Vigil Mass at the U.S. Naval Academy Chapel. Her then-boyfriend Mark was her confirmation sponsor; they were married in 2015! Kim served on active duty for over seven years as a Marine logistician, and continues to serve as a Reservist. She served alongside her husband (Navy submariner), and understands the life of a military spouse. Kim finds great joy in being a witness to the redemptive and healing power of the Gospel. She enjoys traveling, reading, hiking, volunteering, and praying with and for others.
Favorite hymn: Stabat Mater Dolorosa
Favorite liturgical season: Advent
Go-to prayer: The Jesus prayer, “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.”
If she could spend a single day with a Saint, it would be: Wood-working with St. Joseph
Meet Madeline Stockman! An Army wife, mother, and convert. Madeline has been stationed with her family at Fort Hood, Tower Barracks, and now Fort Bragg. In 2015 Madeline was brought into the Catholic Church through the accompaniment and friendships she found at her local military chapel. Now she is passionate about encouraging others to joyfully answer their baptismal call to evangelize! She has a special place in her heart for the Military Council of Catholic Women and spends much of her free time volunteering as their Director at Large for Seminarian Support. She enjoys baking, singing, and a good glass of wine from her home state California.
Guilty pleasure hymn: Rain Down
Favorite liturgical season: Ordinary Time
Go-to prayer: Divine Mercy chaplet
If she could spend a single day with a Saint, it would be: Skiing with John Paul II
Want to know a little more about what to expect of those 12 weeks?
- Weekly small group meetings for practical formation to include the art of conversation, active listening, and small group facilitation.
- One-on-one sessions for individualized accompaniment to grow closer to Christ through prayer.
- Growth in your confidence to live out as ‘salt and light’ in your everyday life.
- Meeting and spending time with other active duty service members and spouses.
After 12 weeks of formation, you will continue to be supported as you respond to the promptings of the Holy Spirit to bring Christ to others through friendships, small groups, or other evangelization opportunities! The AMS is ready to help you Reach More.
