Initiation into the Christian community is a graced process of evangelization, community involvement, catechesis, and formation for mission that culminates in the celebration of the sacraments and begins new life in Christ. This gathering will work with active initiation ministers and other interested parishioners and leaders to explore the importance of the parish community in the initial and continuing formation of Christians, inspire all of its members by the spirit of baptismal catechumenate (RCIA, 75), and celebrate its liturgical rites with joy.
In the Old Testament, God chose and anointed individuals to serve as priest, prophet, or king. Through our Baptism, God called us to a holy priesthood, a prophetic mission, and a royal responsibility. In the waters of Baptism, we died to our old selves and were anointed to new life in him. With this life, we continue Christ’s work of drawing people to God by proclaiming the Gospel with words and actions, bringing others to faith.
When God calls people to faith, they are called to a community. When someone seeks to know Christ, they come to a parish, a community of believers, the Body of Christ. The parish accompanies the catechumens as they come to faith and journey toward the sacraments. Parishioners share their stories of faith, listen to the questions and insights of the catechumens, and pray with and for them, especially at the liturgies that mark the steps along the way to initiation.
This prayerful exercise will guide participants through the signs and symbols of Christian initiation from the moment the inquirers are signed at the Rite of Acceptance into the Order of Catechumens until they receive the consecrated bread and wine at the Easter Vigil. During each rite, we come to know the sacredness of God’s choosing and calling those who seek initiation into a life of faith.
initiation ministers, parish staff members, pastoral council members, liturgy and faith formation committee members, and anyone interested in strengthening their parish community
150 copies of two relevant LTP resources (up to $3500 value)
