In this episode, Nick and Diana continue our exploration of the role of the assembly in the initiation process. And be sure to catch the "Did you know?" section in which we look at times when we might schedule the Rite of Acceptance. Also, we answer a listener question about essential … [Read more...]
Episode 58: What catechumens need to know about fasting
What exactly do Catholics mean by fast and abstinence? And what do the catechumens need to know about these penitential practices? Also, Nick and Diana answer a listener question about how to handle a member of the elect who moved into her parish from an different diocese and wants to be baptized … [Read more...]
Passing By the Dragon
Came across this recently in an essay by the American Catholic novelist, Flannery O'Connor (1925-1964): Saint Cyril of Jerusalem, in instructing catechumens, wrote: The dragon sits by the side of the road watching those who pass. Beware lest he devour you. We go to the Father of Souls, but it is … [Read more...]
Why Three Scrutinies?
This past fall I had the pleasure of working with Fr. Ron Lewinski at a couple of Forum institutes. Fr. Lewinski is a pastor and former director of the Office of Divine Worship in the Chicago Archdiocese. He was one of the early leaders in the catechumenate during its initial implementation in the … [Read more...]
Children and the scrutinies
The adaptation of the scrutiny rites for child catechumens is confusing (RCIA 291). Instead of clearly labeling the rites as scrutinies, they are called "Penitential Rites (Scutinies)." And even though the title is plural, only one text is given with an instruction to write your own for a second, … [Read more...]
