Encouragement is a core value for catechumenate teams

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6 thoughts on “Encouragement is a core value for catechumenate teams”

  1. maria thorsen

    Hi, thank you for all the work you do and I have enjoyed your articles and workshops. I feel this article is too harsh and negative. I understand that ministry can be very challenging as many professions and vocations can be….
    I believe in being real about our fatigue and discouragement at times, but creating a supportive RCIA Team and having parishioners become involved helps to lessen the load.
    With hope and prayer
    Maria

  2. David McMullen

    I don;t recall reading a more negative article. I wish I could offer some uplifting words to the author but the only thing that comes to mind is “maybe you are in the wrong line of work”. It sounded so much like a pity party.
    I am sorry I had to respond so negatively but my conscience would not allow otherwise.

  3. Lena Gokelman

    Thank you for these words! So true (and, perhaps, even timely in this season of the year) for those of us who serve in ministry. I believe whole-heartedly in the powerful relationship between encouragement and attitude. It is so easy to focus on what went wrong, who we are not reaching, and the work that is still undone … the fears, frustrations, and failures. If that is my only food, I cannot grow personally; nor will I have the strength to contribute to my fullest potential collegially – even as much as I may desire to do this. Encouragement is foundational to the success of ministry and relationship-building. I keep thinking of the African proverb Pope Francis quotes in “Christus Vivit”: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” Blessings ~ Lena

  4. Maria Thorsen

    Thank you, again, for your thoughtful words. As RCIA director I understand the importance of encouraging and empowering others to know they called to this ministry by God. Not because they have all the answers or know the doctrines of the Church. They are called into this ministry to share their story and walk with others.
    Thank you

    1. Hi Maria. Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts. You have such a hospitable and empowering sense of what it is to recognize the gifts of others. Blessings on your ministry.

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