We recently received an e-mail from someone who is working in a rural mission area. Much of her work is focused on sacramental preparation, including the preparation of inquirers and catechumens. When she arrived, she found copies of a text that is often used in the United States for “RCIA classes.” … [Read more...]
A catechumenal culture is created by four modes of missionary discipleship
As we prepare for the new translation of the initiation rites, every parish is going to be challenged with developing a catechumenal culture. We have already looked at why that is important and what the church means by a catechumenal culture. In this article, we’ll look at how a catechumenal culture … [Read more...]
What does a catechumenal culture look like?
When I was 34, I moved from the Midwest to San Jose, California. That experience was a huge culture shift for me. It is difficult, however, to describe the depths and nuances of that shift. Culture is mostly invisible to the people who are “native” to it. One way to define culture is to say that it … [Read more...]
Why a catechumenal culture is important
Years ago, I volunteered for a parish catechumenate team. After several e-mails and voice mails went unanswered, I just showed up at one of the team meetings. There were about six people sitting around a cafeteria table, and they were surprised to see a new person. I told them I was interested in … [Read more...]
FAQ: Everything you need to know about the new translation of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults
1. Wait, there’s a new translation? Almost, but not quite yet. The United States bishops have approved a close-to-final translation of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, and we are waiting on confirmation from Rome. So it’s not yet finished, but will be soon. 2. How soon? Well, in church … [Read more...]