November 2009

As we come to the beginning of Advent, parish groups are well into the extended period of the Catechumenate.  Paragraphs 75 to 80 of the Rite give us a detailed coverage of what this time affords us as we grow in faith with the catechumens along the way.  As we begin each stage of the journey with them, it is most valuable to read again the parts of the Rite which pertain to the time. 

In “Echoing God’s Word” by James Dunning, he dedicates a whole chapter to Paragraph 75.  In it he gives us guidelines for our catechesis, particularly reminding us that ‘Faith is not just knowledge about God – faith is knowing God as a beloved’. He directs us to 1 John 1:1,3 as a description of the process of initiation:
 
‘We declare to you what was from the beginning, what we have heard, what we have seen with our eyes, what we have looked at and touched with our hands…..We declare to you what we have seen and heard so that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son Jesus Christ.’

This is the real focus of the journey of faith for each of us, especially as those who accompany the catechumens.  To come to know God who walks with us all the way is what we are about, as is our community.  Through our love and service of others we build up the kingdom of God in our midst and the catechumens will be touched by this spirit among us as a parish.

During the period of Catechumenate, there are various optional rites and blessings which we can celebrate.  These can be used in celebrations within the group, affirming the teachings of the scripture and preparing them for liturgical celebrations with the community.  There are minor exorcisms, blessings and anointings which offer strength and comfort to the catechumens.  The Rite has many prayers from which to choose and they can be found in the Rite from Nos. 81 – 104.

Resources available

• The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults
• The Parish Companion to the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults edited by Fr Terry Wade of the Melbourne Archdiocese.  This book is helpful at every stage of the catechumenal journey, an invaluable resource.  It offers both practical help and inspiration, written in most accessible style and not too lengthy!  This book is available from this office and can be purchased by calling Mary Rohban on 9926 5761.  Cost $20