Learn a simple three-step process for deeply listening to inquirers and catechumens.FREE ARTICLE: Five reasons to stop talking to catechumens
A significant part of our job as catechumenate ministers is to accompany catechumens on their journey towards full initiation into the church. Their initiation will include joining us for the first time at the Table of the Lord. While catechumens are not yet able to approach the eucharistic table, their participation in the Liturgy of
Nurturing catechumens’ prayer life through active participation in the liturgy
An essential skill for sponsors, and any catechumenate team member, is the ability to actively listen. Active listening is different than hearing. An active listener succeeds in hearing not only the words another person is saying but also understanding the meaning of the words from the speaker’s point of view. Active listening is not a
Listening skills for RCIA sponsors
In a previous article, we explored why taking things step by step is important in helping people on their faith journey. But how does this work in the real world? How can catechumenate teams put the idea of gradual initiation into practice? I am not going to pretend it’s easy to do. A classroom structure
Nurturing gradual conversion: Tools for catechumenate teams
RESOURCE PAGE Skills for Mystagogues How to Accompany Seekers into the Divine Mystery Help seekers experience the fullness of God’s love and grace as they prepare for initiation or reception into full communion. RESOURCES FOR YOUR COMMUNITY Articles E-book Training Webinars ARTICLES Walking with others on the journey of faith “I LOVE what you said
Develop active listening as a central catechetical skill. Silence is awkward. Remember the last time you met someone new? After you exchanged names, your new friend asked, “What do you do?” You replied, “I’m a catechist.” Looooong silence. Awkward. When we’re meeting with inquirers or catechumens, we try to avoid awkwardness. We don’t want to
Five reasons to stop talking to catechumens
The goal of the first meeting with your inquirer is to learn as much as you can about his or her spiritual background. However it is important to share something about yourself as well. What you share with the inquirer should discuss both your own story of faith and the story of faith of your
This lesson will summarize three main themes in attempting to begin the process of getting to know those inquiring about the faith. It will explore the idea of a 70-30 sharing ratio, the value and importance of silence, and explain how to be an active listener. The 70/30 rule This first meeting with the inquirer
Implementing Question 1: Where Have You Been?
When we set out to form inquirers, catechumens, and candidates in faith, we too often ask the wrong question. Our initial (and sometimes only) question focuses on input: “What should I teach?” That is usually the wrong question. Instead, we should ask questions that focus on behavior or outcome. What change would you like to
The Value of Asking the Right Question
A path to becoming a master evangelist Your way to more confidence, deeper engagement, and less stress continues here Step 2.1 Heal the Wounds ALL ACCESS: Training article: The nine most important steps for making disciples MEMBER ACCESS: Video Marathon segment: Episode 5: The three levels of evangelization Video Marathon segment: Episode 6: Five essential
