The threefold ministry of the Church has been integral to its mission throughout history. In the Gospel according to Matthew, we see the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry marked by the calling of the first four disciples, who were fishermen that He invited to follow Him. This calling is soon followed by the clear articulation of the threefold ministry modelled by Jesus: “Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people” (Matthew 4:23).

This pattern reveals what may be described as the holistic ministry of the Church. Teaching addresses education, formation, and mental development, nurturing understanding and wisdom. Preaching involves the proclamation of the Gospel, the good news of God’s Kingdom, calling people to repentance, faith, and new life in Christ. Healing encompasses both miraculous or supernatural acts and compassionate healthcare, responding to human suffering and restoring wholeness.

This ministry is holistic because it addresses the full scope of human existence, encompassing spiritual, physical, emotional, and mental aspects. As the Church, we are called to participate in this holistic ministry as modelled by Christ – a ministry that seeks not only salvation but also the restoration of humanity to God’s original plan and purpose.