tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23822540599453932262024-02-08T13:48:06.049-05:00Christian Initiation in OntarioThe Christian Initiation Committee supports the Ontario Liturgical Conference, a consultative body of the Assembly of Catholic Bishops of Ontario, in matters pertaining to the implementation of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults and other issues of Christian Initiation. A primary goal of the Christian Initiation Committee is to promote the vision of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults as it applies to adults, children of catechetical age and those baptized in infancy. Christian Initiationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07775356773371622760noreply@blogger.comBlogger18125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2382254059945393226.post-51619949745834507412019-12-02T10:15:00.002-05:002019-12-02T10:15:43.125-05:00Advent A Season of Joyful Expectation<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: green; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Preparing for Life at the Table of the Lord<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">A Newsletter from the Christian
Initiation Committee<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>of the Ontario Liturgical Conference<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">Advent 2019<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 104%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">The Advent Christmas Season<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 104%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Advent
may be the one time of year that we feel the most out of sync with our
surroundings and culture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our world is
busy planning and celebrating Christmas parties and as a new liturgical year
begins we are entering a season of joyful expectation. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 104%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Expectation
or anticipation is not something our culture embraces. We seek to have needs
met quickly and the notion of waiting is almost lost. Often when forced to wait
in line at the local store or doctor’s office we turn our attention to an
electronic device.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 104%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 104%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">For
catechumens and candidates, it may be challenging to hear the Scriptures and
prayers of Advent when for years their pattern has been to focus on Christmas
from about December 1<sup>st</sup> until December 26<sup>th</sup>. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 104%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Celebrating
the Advent season can provide opportunities to practice welcoming Christ in our
brothers and sisters as we prepare to celebrate the mystery of the Incarnation.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 104%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">This
season is an ideal time for sponsors to walk closely with the catechumens and
candidates.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The role of the sponsor is
to accompany and serve as a mentor. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 104%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Advent
provides the space and time for a sponsor to invite the catechumen or candidate
to join them in an act of charity or outreach. The sponsor is encouraged to
pray with the catechumen or candidate prior to the activity and to include time
after the event to reflect together on the time spent serving God by serving
others. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 104%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Many
parishes hold special events during Advent such as Lessons and Carols or an
evening reflection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sponsors may invite
and accompany the catechumen or candidate to a parish event. This is a
practical way to introduce them to the larger parish community.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 104%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">One
of the most effective ways to celebrate Advent well is to deliberately schedule
Christmas gatherings during the Christmas season.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This year the feast of Christmas ends at
sundown on Sunday January 12<sup>th</sup>. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 104%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 104%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">During
the Christmas break we continue to gather with catechumens and candidates for
breaking open the Word each Sunday.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The feast
of the Holy Family and Epiphany are opportunities to celebrate the Christmas
season with the catechumens, candidates and their families. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 104%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 104%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Lamenting
a culture that surrenders Advent to Christmas festivities will not lead us to
embracing the Advent season. Celebrating Advent well and scheduling times to
celebrate Christmas during the Christmas season will assist us in living in
harmony with the liturgical year.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />Christian Initiationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07775356773371622760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2382254059945393226.post-74727387372941814082019-04-28T10:24:00.003-04:002019-04-28T10:30:18.249-04:00The Period of MystagogyChrist has Risen! Risen indeed!<br />
<br />
As we continue to celebrate the great 50 days this brief introduction to the Period of Mystagogy is offered for your reflection.<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "utopia" , "palatino linotype" , "palatino" , serif;"><span style="background-color: #279e9e; font-size: 15.4px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "utopia" , "palatino linotype" , "palatino" , serif;"><span style="background-color: #279e9e; font-size: 15.4px;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/open?id=1TNs9sVG4UeTHoNgR2ZMltsZEMSdNq5Nj">https://drive.google.com/open?id=1TNs9sVG4UeTHoNgR2ZMltsZEMSdNq5Nj</a></span></span>Christian Initiationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07775356773371622760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2382254059945393226.post-4287655814229184992019-02-22T16:21:00.006-05:002019-02-22T16:21:52.873-05:00Preparing for Life at the Table of the Lord <div style="text-align: center;">
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<div align="center" class="MsoHeader" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">A Newsletter from the Christian Initiation Committee<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoHeader" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> of the Ontario Liturgical Conference<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Lent 2019</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Lent
in the Parish<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">We know that the season of Lent in a parish is a special
time of year. There is an intensity and purpose to the season, and many things
change – outwardly and inwardly. In the church building we see flowers removed,
and purple vestments and banners appear.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">People are marked with ashes to begin this sacred/solemn
time, and the practices of the season: Prayer, Fasting and Almsgiving are
embraced. Whether there is a parish mission or some other kind of devotion - Lent
is not the “Same old – Same old”. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">This season prepares the Elect for Initiation, and the
balance of the parish to renew their Baptismal promises at the great feast of
Easter.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">For those already baptized, the season of Lend needs to be
different in the process of preparation for the Sacraments of Initiation as
well. It is an ideal time for a retreat for families preparing for a child to
come to the Table and share in Holy Communion for the </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">First time. It is a great
time for Confirmation Candidates to work with their sponsor on a plan of
outreach, having been informed of the disciplines of Lent, and the joy of being
baptized.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Lent
for the Elect<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The time of Lent also needs to be different for those
Catechumens who become the Elect on the First Sunday of Lent. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">This time is not a time of catching up on matters from the
period of the Catechumenate; it is a wonderful 40-day retreat centered on the
rites of the season.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "High Tower Text",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Scrutiny
</span></b><b><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ascii-font-family: "High Tower Text"; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "High Tower Text"; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">è</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "High Tower Text",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> Purification<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "High Tower Text",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Presentation
</span></b><b><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ascii-font-family: "High Tower Text"; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: "High Tower Text"; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">è</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "High Tower Text",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> Enlightenment<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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</span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
In the <i>Rite of
Christian Initiation of Adults</i> the time of Lent is referred to as the
Period of Purification and Enlightenment. The two types of ritual actions that
happen in this period are the Scrutinies and the Presentations of the Creed and
the Our Father. <o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">On the third, fourth, and fifth Sundays of Lent we
celebrate a Scrutiny. The scrutiny is meant to uncover then heal all that is
weak, defective, or sinful in the Elect, and then strengthen all that is
upright, strong and good. Looking at Jesus as the living water, the light of
the world, and the resurrection and the life, these Scrutinies are preparing and
purifying the elect for Initiation. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">In the third week we present the Creed, and in the fifth
week we present the Our Father. Since they celebrated the Rite of Acceptance,
our catechumens have been dismissed so they have not prayed these ancient texts
which express the heart of the Church’s faith and prayer in the midst of the
assembled community.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Thus the Rites belonging to Lent are very closely related
to the name of this period in the Church’s ritual text!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"></span></div>
</div>
Christian Initiationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07775356773371622760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2382254059945393226.post-24141527600569795192018-10-26T21:42:00.002-04:002018-10-26T21:42:59.520-04:00<div align="center" class="MsoHeader" style="text-align: center;">
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</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: green; font-family: "Georgia",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Preparing for Life at the Table of the Lord<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="WordSection1">
<div align="center" class="MsoHeader" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;">A Newsletter from the Christian
Initiation Committee<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoHeader" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif;"> of the Ontario Liturgical Conference<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; text-align: right;">Fall Ordinary Time 2018</span> </o:p></div>
</div>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br clear="all" style="mso-break-type: section-break; page-break-before: auto;" />
</span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Preparing
for and Celebrating a Rite<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">As we move closer to the end of the liturgical year many
initiation leaders are focused on preparing to celebrate the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Rite of Acceptance into the Order of
Catechumens</i> or the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Rite of Welcoming
Candidates</i>. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">For experienced and new leaders alike, the best place to
turn when preparing to celebrate a rite is the blue ritual book, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">We recall that unbaptized inquirers (7 years of age and
older) celebrate the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Rite of Acceptance</i>
and baptized candidates (7 years of age and older) seeking reception into Full
Communion celebrate the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Rite of Welcoming
Candidates</i>. The two rites are never celebrated at the same liturgy. (par.
457 & 466). The baptismal dignity of the candidates is to be respected. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">There is never a reason to schedule the two rites during
the same liturgy. In a parish that gathers only once for Sunday Mass it may be
necessary to schedule the rites over two weeks. In other parishes it will be
possible to schedule the two rites at two different liturgies. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Readiness
to Celebrate<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Before discerning if an inquirer is ready to celebrate the
first public rite it is wise to review par. 42 & 458.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Church is looking for signs of first
faith, initial conversion and a start to the practice of calling upon God in
prayer, a sense of the Church and some experience of sharing in the life of the
community.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is the formal beginning
of the initiation journey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Those ready
to celebrate this first rite will have begun to develop the habit of weekly
participation in Sunday Mass.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Celebrating
in the Midst of the Community<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The rites are celebrated during Sunday liturgy. For the
unbaptized the rite begins outside the worship space or in the narthex and for
the baptized the rite begins in the midst of the assembly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For both rites the Penitential Rite and
Gloria are omitted. (See pages 20 & 270 in the ritual book.)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Preparing musicians, lectors and ministers of hospitality
will foster a more vibrant celebration. Including sung acclamations invites the
entire assembly into prayer. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is
important to use a microphone so the responses of those seeking initiation can
be heard. Preparing sponsors in advance so they are able to guide the inquirers
means the dignity and power of the rite is strengthened.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Breaking
Open God’s Word<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Each Sunday from the day the rite is celebrated until full
initiation, after the homily the catechumens and candidates will be sent to reflect
and feast on God’s Word (par. 67 & 485).</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: #DDDDDD; mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 107%;">The Ontario
Liturgical Conference is a consultative body to the Assembly of Catholic
Bishops of Ontario in liturgical matters. The Christian Initiation Committee
supports the OLC in matters pertaining to the implementation of the Rite of
Christian Initiation of Adults and other issues of Christian Initiation in
Ontario, Canada. One of the primary goals of the Christian Initiation Committee
is to promote the vision of the <i>Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults </i>as
it applies to adults, children of catechetical age and those baptized in
infancy. To be added to the email list please contact olcrcia@gmail.com<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />Christian Initiationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07775356773371622760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2382254059945393226.post-83252268856381492942018-09-04T11:47:00.001-04:002018-09-04T11:47:30.026-04:00Formation Event CancelledWith regret, due to low registrations, we have had to cancel the conference <b>The Word of God in the Sacraments of the Church </b>scheduled for September 28 and 29, 2018.<br />
We apologize for any inconvenience.<br />
<br />
<br />Christian Initiationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07775356773371622760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2382254059945393226.post-53989083523649017592018-04-09T10:34:00.000-04:002018-04-09T10:35:14.365-04:00Initiation During the "Slow Days of Summer"<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">This article originally appeared in Celebrate!
The Journal That Makes Liturgy Come Alive!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The last issue of Celebrate! was published in 2012. </span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">On May 20<sup>th</sup> we will celebrate
the feast of Pentecost marking the end of the Easter season. In many parishes Pentecost
marks a change in the parish calendar.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There are fewer meetings and some of the regular groups tend to “take a
break for the summer”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In our country it
is common for parish life to move into a slower rhythm as the school year ends
and families look to weekends away. Although the onset of nicer weather and
summer schedules changes the rhythm of our parishes it need not lead to a lack
of activity for the initiation team.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
‘slower days of summer’ can be a time of renewal, formation and activity. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Renewal<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The 90 days of Lent and Easter are busy
and intense for those preparing to celebrate initiation, sponsors and the leaders
of the initiation process.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The weeks
shortly after Pentecost are an ideal time to gather the leaders for a day of
reflection and prayer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Whenever possible gathering away from
the parish is helpful for it allows for a different experience and reduces the
opportunity for interruptions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The day
of reflection is a time of nourishment for the leaders. The agenda would not
provide time to address practical issues nor to plan. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When designing the day it is important to
include sufficient time for a short reflection by a facilitator, silence and
shared prayer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each of these elements
fosters a time of renewal. Some parishes may be able to join with one or two
other parishes and share the cost of a facility and facilitator. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">For many, this yearly gathering has
become an essential component of formation for initiation leaders. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The pastoral staff and finance committee
recognize the importance of renewal and budget accordingly. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Formation<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">As we enter into the long period of
Ordinary Time it is particularly helpful to gather the pastoral staff and the
initiation leaders to reflect on the liturgies of Lent and the celebration of
the initiation sacraments.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For example,
taking time to reflect on the rites that began the period of Lent as well as
the Scrutinies and Presentations will allow for discussion that may lead to
changes for next Lent. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This reflection can begin by recalling
the experience, noting the ritual actions or activity that fostered
participation and naming anything that inhibited participation of all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A review of the ritual text including the
pastoral notes and rubrics will allow you to name any aspects of the rite that
needs to be celebrated in a stronger way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>A review of the rite may lead to new information and understanding of
the three Scrutinies and the Presentations of the Creed and Lord’s Prayer. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">For example, a parish team may realize
that the intercessions for the Scrutinies “may be adapted to fit various
circumstances” (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">RCIA</i>, 140).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The intercessions may be written after the
preparation for the scrutiny has been completed so that the particular needs of
the local community are included. A thorough reading of the pastoral notes may
lead to a decision to include the Presentations of the Creed and Lord’s Prayer during
the extended period of the Catehcumenate. (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">RCIA,
</i>134).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The reasons for anticipating
the Presentations may be linked to the length of the catechumenate and the
needs of the catechumens.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This decision
would be revisited each year for the needs of the catechumen must be
considered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Adopting this practice of reflection and
reading the rite may be applied to all periods and rites of the initiation
process. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Taking time to review the
pastoral notes for the Period of Evangelization and Precatechumenate and the
Rite of Acceptance may lead to implementing pastoral practices that more
clearly reflect the vision of the rite. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It has been my experience that even after
years of working with the ritual text, the pastoral notes and the rubrics still
have something to offer a seasoned initiation leader. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The slower days of summer provide some
breathing space and an opportunity for the leaders to further their own
understanding of the rite. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>During this
long period of Ordinary Time there may be opportunities to travel and take a
course or attend a conference or gathering focused on initiation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Members of the parish initiation team are
more likely to stay involved when they are able to continue to grow in their
own understanding of this ministry. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Activity<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">In a parish with an ongoing inquiry
group there would be regular gatherings during the slower summer months.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is important to continue the contact with
the inquirers although the nature and frequency of the gatherings may
change.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A barbecue either at the parish
or at the home of one of the parishioners would allow for family members to
attend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A time of socializing and shared
prayer before the meal would mentor others in community living. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Throughout the Easter season it is
possible to have a variety of people formally connected to the initiation
process.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is becoming more common for
a parish to have catechumens who continue to gather to Break Open the Word each
Sunday throughout Easter and Ordinary Time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>These people are continuing their time of apprenticeship and
formation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>During the summer months the
catechumens and families along with the inquirers and families could
participate in a visit to a local outdoor shrine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The visit to the shrine could include time
for prayer, catechesis on the saint and fellowship.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">In some parishes there are a number of
festivals that occur during the early months of summer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Often the festival is linked to a particular
cultural group and focus on a certain saint.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Inviting the leaders responsible for the festival to include those
seeking initiation is a concrete way of fostering a greater understanding of
initiation as a task of all the baptized. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The neophytes, those newly received into
Full Communion and their families could be involved in the organizing and
hospitality for some of the activities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The slower days of summer are times of
renewal and rest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is possible to
respect the need for renewal while expanding our understanding of initiation as
a time of formation and apprenticeship.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We live as Catholics 52 weeks of the year so it is reasonable for our
initiation process to reflect the fullness of a Catholic lifestyle.</span></div>
Christian Initiationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07775356773371622760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2382254059945393226.post-17862578606119707492017-09-20T20:55:00.001-04:002017-09-20T20:55:25.926-04:00<span style="color: #274e13; font-size: large;"><b>The Word of God in the Sacraments of the Church</b></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thank you to the 68 people who gathered with the Christian Initiation Committee at the Providence Spirituality Centre in Kingston on September 15 and 16, 2017. People from across our province travelled to be a part of this formation event. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">There
were participants from the following dioceses: London, Hamilton,
Toronto, Timmins, Kingston and Ottawa. Archbishop Brendan O'Brien from the archdiocese of Kingston joined us to Evening Prayer on Friday. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The three focus sessions were: </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><span lang="EN-CA">The Word of God in Our
Lives </span></b><i><span lang="EN-CA"><o:p></o:p></span></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“The Scriptures are the living waters from which all
who seek life and salvation must drink.”
Introduction to the Lectionary, CCCB, 2009, par. 5<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><span lang="EN-CA">The Word of God at
the Heart of Initiation</span></b><i><span lang="EN-CA"><o:p></o:p></span></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“The
Church has always venerated the divine scriptures as it has venerated the Body
of the Lord, in that it never ceases, above all in the sacred liturgy, to
partake of the bread of life and to offer it to the faithful from the one table
of the word of God and the Body of Christ.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span lang="EN-CA"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dogmatic
Constitution on Divine Revelation, par. 21<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
<div class="Default">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-pagination: none; text-indent: -1.0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><span lang="EN-CA">The
Word of God: Integral to Initial and Ongoing Catechesis</span></b><i><span lang="EN-CA"><o:p></o:p></span></i></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><span lang="EN-CA">“Catechesis will always draw its content from the
living source of the Word of God transmitted in Tradition and the Scriptures,
for sacred Tradition and sacred Scripture make up a single sacred deposit of
the word of God, which is entrusted to the Church” General Directory for
Catechesis par. 94</span></i> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The evaluation forms indicate that the participants found the time helpful, formative and spiritually enriching. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">May all parish initiation members continue to strive to put people not only in touch but also in communion and intimacy with Jesus Christ. (General Directory for Catechesis, par. 80) </span><br />
<br />
<br />Christian Initiationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07775356773371622760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2382254059945393226.post-22321537042562631852017-09-01T11:13:00.002-04:002017-09-01T11:14:47.369-04:00The Word of God in the Sacraments of the Church<span style="font-size: large;">Registration for the September Conference has now closed.</span><br />
Christian Initiationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07775356773371622760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2382254059945393226.post-6981251476976447632017-05-25T19:38:00.001-04:002017-05-25T19:44:24.295-04:00<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: #006c31; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 18.0pt;">The Word of God in the Sacraments
of the Church<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
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</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><b><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">For those who prepare people to celebrate
Sacraments of Initiation<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Friday September 15,
2017 from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. </span></b><br />
<b><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">and Saturday September 16, 2017 </span></b><br />
<b><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">from 9:00 a.m. –
3:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Providence Spirituality
Centre<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">1200 Princess St.
Kingston, ON<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination: none; text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Sponsored by the<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination: none; text-align: center;">
<b><i><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Christian Initiation Committee, Ontario Liturgical Conference<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination: none; text-align: center;">
<b><i><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A Consultative Body of the Assembly of Catholic Bishops of Ontario<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We are called to hear and reflect on the Word of
God to more deeply become the word of God ourselves and proclaim it by our
lives. This gathering will focus on the role of the Word of God in our lives as
Catholics. We shall explore the place God’s Word has in the preparation for
Baptism, Confirmation and first sharing in Holy Communion as well as the
implications of having the Word of God at the heart of the initiation process
(RCIA). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The conference is for all who prepare others to
celebrate a sacrament of initiation including <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Pastors and
Deacons,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">those who lead
the parish RCIA, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">parish leaders
responsible for Baptism preparation for infants<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">leaders of the
parish Confirmation Preparation <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">leaders of the
parish First Communion Preparation<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<b><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and </span></b><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">all people who
have a passion for God’s Word. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Cost<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Option
A $105.00 </span></b><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">(Conference, Friday Night Social, accommodation on
Friday, Supper on Friday, Breakfast and Lunch on Saturday)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Add
$10.00 if registering after August 15<sup>th</sup>. <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Option
B $50.00 </span></b><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">(Conference, Friday Night Social and Saturday
lunch) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Add
$10.00 if registering after August 15<sup>th</sup>.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<span style="color: blue;"><b>Brochure and registration form available by clicking on Upcoming Workshops. </b></span></div>
Christian Initiationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07775356773371622760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2382254059945393226.post-6488716060946381932017-03-27T12:25:00.000-04:002017-03-31T21:13:41.957-04:00A Formation Event in September 2017<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16.0pt;">The Word of God in the Sacraments of the Church<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">For
those who prepare people to celebrate sacraments of initiation<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Friday
September 15, 2017 from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
Saturday September 16, 2017 from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Providence
Spirituality Centre<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">1200
Princess St. Kingston, ON<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">We are called to hear and reflect on the Word
of God to more deeply become the word of God ourselves and proclaim it by our
lives. This gathering will focus on the role of the Word of God in our lives as
Catholics. We shall explore the place God’s Word has in the preparation for
Baptism, Confirmation and first sharing in Holy Communion as well as the
implications of having the Word of God at the heart of the initiation process
(RCIA). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">The conference is for all who prepare others to
celebrate a sacrament of initiation including <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Pastors and Deacons,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">those who lead the parish RCIA, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">parish leaders responsible for the
Baptism preparation for infants<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">leaders of the parish Confirmation
Preparation <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">leaders of the parish First Communion
Preparation<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<b><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">and
</span></b><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">all
people who have a passion for God’s Word. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Option A $105.00 * <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Supper
on September 15 <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Conference
and Facility Fee <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Accommodation
at Providence Spirituality Centre ***<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Breakfast,
Lunch on September 16<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Option B (commuters) $50.00 </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Conference
and Facility Fee</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Lunch on September 16</span></div>
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><b>*Add $10.00 if registering after August
15<sup>th</sup></b>. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="Default">
<br /></div>
<div class="Default">
<b><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;">***</span></b><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;">The rooms at Providence Spirituality Centre </span><span style="color: windowtext; font-size: 11.0pt;">do not have a private bathroom</span><span style="color: red; font-size: 11.0pt;">.</span><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;">
There is limited availability so please register early. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="Default">
<br /></div>
A limited
number of rooms have been reserved at the Thriftlodge Kingston (formerly the
Peachtree Inn), located across the street from the centre. The cost is $99.00 (double
occupancy) which includes parking, WIFI, continental breakfast. Reserve your
room with Thriftlodge Kingston (1-800-706-0698) before August 15, 2017. <span style="color: windowtext; font-size: 11pt;">When reserving
your room please mention reference number 732-998038 or ask for the OLC Initiation group. </span><br />
<span style="color: windowtext; font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination: none; text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Full brochure available after June 1, 2017 at </span></b><span lang="EN-CA"><a href="http://olcinitiation.blogspot.ca/"><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">http://olcinitiation.blogspot.ca</span></b></a></span><b><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination: none; text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">click on <i>Upcoming
Workshops</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="Default">
</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination: none; text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Email: olcrcia@gmail.com or call Catherine at 705
718 4808.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
Christian Initiationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07775356773371622760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2382254059945393226.post-42036887924045527142016-05-07T21:54:00.001-04:002016-05-07T21:55:37.455-04:00Called to Journey Together in Christ<h2>
Summer School for Liturgical Musicians and Parish Initiation Leaders July 17 - 20, 2016 </h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #555555; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"></span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #555555; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #555555; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">For more than 20 years the Music
Commission of the Ontario Liturgical Conference, (a consultative body to the
Assembly of Catholic Bishops) has offered a formation event for all parish
liturgical musicians. This year for the first time, the Music Commission
and the Christian Initiation Committee both of the Ontario Liturgical Conference
are joining together to offer a formation event.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You may access information about this event
</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #555555; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">by clicking
on Upcoming Workshops. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #555555; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">If you have any questions please send
an email to olcrcia@gmail.com</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Christian Initiationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07775356773371622760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2382254059945393226.post-73185533550194260252015-09-01T13:53:00.005-04:002015-09-01T13:53:49.233-04:00Registration for <b>The Role of the Whole Parish in Preparing Children and Adults to Celebrate Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist </b>is closed. If you have any questions please contact us by email at olcrcia@gmail.comChristian Initiationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07775356773371622760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2382254059945393226.post-77281727058791841462015-08-29T14:55:00.003-04:002015-08-29T15:04:21.964-04:00Christian Initiationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07775356773371622760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2382254059945393226.post-17214811945859041382015-03-11T23:49:00.001-04:002015-03-11T23:49:37.296-04:00<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">The Role of the Whole
Parish <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">in Preparing Children
and Adults <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">to Celebrate Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Friday Sept. 18 - Saturday Sept. 19, 2015<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Manresa Jesuit Spiritual Renewal Centre <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">2325 Liverpool Road, Pickering, ON
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Sponsored
by the <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Christian Initiation
Committee, <o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Ontario Liturgical
Conference<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">A Consultative Body of
the Assembly of <o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Catholic Bishops of
Ontario</span></i></b><b><i><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">The task of preparing children and adults to
celebrate initiation is one of the joys and responsibilities of all the
baptized. Each parish, regardless of its
size or the number of candidates preparing to celebrate a sacrament of
initiation, is able to assist the baptized community in fulfilling their
primary role. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">This conference will explore the role of the
parish Sunday assembly, the sponsor, godparent, and the parish leaders in
preparing others to celebrate the Church’s rites of Christian initiation. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">The conference will be of particular interest
to:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Pastors,
Deacons, Lay Pastoral Staff<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Parishioners
responsible for preparing others to celebrate <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Baptism,
Confirmation & First Eucharist. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Parish
Initiation Team (RCIA) Members<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Parishioners
serving as sponsors / godparents. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">School
Personnel involved in immediate preparation for the sacraments of Confirmation
& First Eucharist.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Cost: <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Option A: $110.00 </span></b><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">(Conference/ accommodation on Friday ,Supper on Friday, Breakfast and
Lunch on Saturday, and Friday night reception).
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Add $10.00 if registering after
August 1, 2015. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Option B: $50.00 </span></b><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">(Conference / Friday night
reception and Saturday Lunch). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Add $10.00 if registering after August 1, 2015. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Registration Forms will be available after
April 15, 2015 online at<b> olcinitiation.blogspot.ca </b>or by email:<b>
olcrcia@gmail.com<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
Christian Initiationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07775356773371622760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2382254059945393226.post-35853068658119019342014-09-29T19:52:00.003-04:002014-09-30T23:24:23.685-04:00Journeying in Community to the Fullness of Christ <div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: large;">Preparing to Celebrate Baptism, Confirmation </span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: large;">and
Eucharist</span></b></div>
<div class="Default">
<br /></div>
<div class="Default">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: large;">In 2014 the
Christian Initiation Committee facilitated a conference for pastors, deacons,
lay pastoral staff, school personnel, parishioners responsible for preparing
others to celebrate Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist; and parish initiation
team (RCIA) members. The conference
focused on fostering a fuller understanding of the primacy of Sunday and
Eucharist as the repeatable sacrament of initiation. The conference was held in
June at Providence Spirituality Centre, Kingston and in September at St. Pius X
Parish, Brantford. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="Default">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="Default">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: large;">During the
conference participants were invited to hear a little of the history of
‘growing up Catholic’ in Ontario during the years immediately before and after
the Second Vatican Council and to realize that the current culture is quite
different. In light of paragraph 75 from the <i>Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults</i> participants examined the
depth and breadth of a Catholic life and critiqued current pastoral practices
that support or contradict the vision of Sunday Eucharist as the repeatable
sacrament of initiation. At both conferences participants were invited to dream
about making small or large changes in their pastoral practices both in
speaking about the sacraments of initiation within the parish and in
ministering with candidates that would foster a deeper understanding of the
primacy of Sunday and Eucharist as the repeatable sacrament of initiation in
the lives of our Catholic people. A summary of the dreams follow. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Wingdings;">v<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Establish an initiation
process that respects the person’s readiness. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Wingdings;">v<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">A strong parish
community that embraces their role as sponsors and mentors for those seeking
initiation. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Wingdings;">v<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">To explain to those
seeking initiation from the beginning that Sunday Eucharist is primary, the
source and summit. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Wingdings;">v<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Invite and form
families to sponsor a child or adult seeking initiation. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Wingdings;">v<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Develop ‘pew
sponsors’ – a family or person for the family or person to sit with each
Sunday. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Wingdings;">v<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Celebrate well each
and every Sunday.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Wingdings;">v<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Eliminate time lines
for the periods of formation – ie allow as much time as needed for the period
of inquiry and catechumenate.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Wingdings;">v<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Include meetings for
families after they have celebrated Baptism with infants, Confirmation with
young people and First Communion with children, to foster an awareness of the
need for postbaptismal and ongoing catechesis. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Wingdings;">v<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Get the Rite (RCIA)
right!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Wingdings;">v<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Pastors that work
with the community and understand / embrace the rites of initiation. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Wingdings;">v<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Celebrate the rites
well so the community is engaged and able to pray with the inquirers,
catechumens, candidates<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Wingdings;">v<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Embrace fully the
apprenticeship model for all initiation.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Wingdings;">v<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Taking the time
necessary to become acquainted with the inquirers, catechumens, candidates<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Wingdings;">v<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Take the time to
catechize parents prior to their children celebrating Confirmation or First
Communion. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Wingdings; text-indent: -0.25in;">v<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Teach others –
including families how to break open the Gospel.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Wingdings; text-indent: -0.25in;">v<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Learn and practice
discernment. Stop being in a rush to initiate.</span></span></div>
Christian Initiationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07775356773371622760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2382254059945393226.post-61842647319631060042014-06-27T15:51:00.001-04:002014-06-28T15:04:58.389-04:00Kingston & Brantford<span style="font-size: large;">On June 13 & 14, 2014 the Christian Initiation Committee of the Ontario Liturgical Conference hosted a successful workshop <b><i>"Journeying in Community to the Fullness of Life in Christ"</i></b> in Kingston at the Providence Spirituality Centre. The presentations included:</span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b><i><span style="font-size: large;">Making Christians: </span><span style="font-size: large;">Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow </span></i></b><span style="font-size: large;">How did we prepare for and initiate in </span><span style="font-size: large;">recent years? Describing the current picture </span><span style="font-size: large;">and hearing the Church’s vision assists us in initiating others.</span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Touching the Heart of Initiation: Jesus Christ</i></b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b><i> </i></b></span><span style="font-size: large;">Our journey to union of life in Jesus Christ is ongoing. The journey is shaped by </span><span style="font-size: large;">familiar practices and immersion into a way of life.</span></blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">Finally we concluded with Focus Groups:</span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Formation for Life at the Table </i></b></span><span style="font-size: large;">In light of the Church’s vision how do we prepare others for life at the Sunday </span><span style="font-size: large;">Eucharistic table at home, in the parish and in the school?</span></blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">Click on the "Upcoming Workshops" link to the right to get information about a similar workshop we are offering in the Diocese of Hamilton - in Brantford in September.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Christian Initiationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07775356773371622760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2382254059945393226.post-48898131851080767512014-02-20T21:29:00.003-05:002014-02-20T23:36:58.248-05:00Shifting from Graduation to Initiation - Paradigm Shift Part 2<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">In our North American society, there is
little doubt that our lives are governed by the school calendar: summer
vacation, Christmas vacation, March or Spring break. Even when nobody in our immediate lives is in
school, this calendar still affects us.
One just needs to look at vacation package prices for Spring/March break
to be reminded of this reality.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">In a society that lives within this
academic-year backdrop, it is no surprise that the “graduation model” permeates
so much of people’s thinking about the sacraments that we celebrate with young
people and their families. Think of the
requirements needed to obtain a High School Diploma: courses that need to be
completed, certain grades that must be attained, a defined minimum number of credits
in subject categories, and a minimum number of hours in each of those
credits. This need to complete these
permeates this graduation model.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">This graduation paradigm is reinforced
when we speak in terms of knowledge to be gained, work to be done, hoops to be jumped
through, before a child or young person can celebrate a sacrament. You need to
do this – in order to get that. All of
“these things” need to be done before you get the carrot at the end of the
stick – whatever sacrament that might be.
Once you have graduated you have completed the task. Just as graduation is seen as the end point,
so the sacrament is seen as the end point.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">We also live in a culture where
experiences are treated as commodities, where the experience of praying and chanting
compline in a chapel with monks is then packaged as a CD to be played in the
background at a dinner party or cocktail hour.
A mystical spiritual experience that requires time and effort on the
part of a participant is now packaged for “atmosphere” and demands nothing of
the hearer, let alone that person’s attention.
The graduation paradigm also fits this approach, treating sacraments as
commodities. Something must be “done” so
something can be “obtained.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">We need a paradigm shift here: a shift
from <i>graduation </i>to <i>initiation.</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Now, the initiation paradigm sees the
preparation for and the celebration of baptism, confirmation and Eucharist as
incorporation into the life of the church.
Initiation is the opposite of graduation. Initiation sees each of these sacraments as a
<i>beginning</i>, as a start, as immersion into the life of Christ, <i>not</i>
as an ending, or as a final goal.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">How do we make such a shift?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">First, we need to see how we operate out
of the “graduation” model as ministers within the church. How often do we treat the sacraments as
commodities that we dole out when people have achieved a certain knowledge
base, or have done a certain number of community service hours, or made a
certain number of visits to the church?
I remember a parishioner who was absolutely distraught one Sunday
morning a number of years ago. The
source of her distress was a comment that the mother of a family had made to
one of her children who was literally tearing the songbook to shreds: “Don’t
worry, honey, after today we only have to come back here one more time.” Have we forgotten that readiness to celebrate
a sacrament is connected to relationship: relationship with God and with the
local believing community? Hoops, hoops,
hoops. Come to this Mass, present this
letter, receive this cross, get your name checked off … We need to examine ourselves: does the graduation
model not lurk in all these approaches?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">We also need to name the difference for our
parishioners. Let’s use clear examples
of the difference between the two mindsets.
When we speak to families of young people who are preparing for the
sacrament of confirmation, we can quite literally speak of how a child who
graduates from elementary school is no longer welcome in that school without a
“Visitor” badge from the office. In this
situation graduation means completion and departure. Celebrating a sacrament of initiation is the
exact opposite of graduation: it is
about belonging and inclusion.
Regardless of the timing and order of the sacraments of Initiation, each
one and all three together are about incorporation into the life of Christ, who
brings us into the shared life of the Trinity. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">When we work with children and families
who seek a sacrament, there is a catechesis relevant to the sacrament that is
being anticipated. This is different
from religious education. Ongoing
religious education, either in a Catholic school, or in the parish and home
setting, differs from the formation and catechesis that are linked to
initiation sacraments. In religious education,
participants fill in books, and get stickers and perhaps even grades. And they pass from one grade to another. Religious education rightly falls within the
scope of the graduation paradigm.
Preparation for sacraments of initiation does not fit this
paradigm. Some parishes expect
candidates for a sacrament to participate in a certain number of community
service hours. Community service is a
good thing. Years ago the Province of
Ontario instituted a specific number of community service hours as a
requirement for graduation from secondary school. Seen in this light, a set number of community
service hours as a requirement for young people preparing for Confirmation
reinforces the graduation mindset.
Publicly stating this, and encouraging candidates to see service as a
way we live our life as Catholic Christians, not merely as something (or worse
– as a hoop) to be “done” in order to “get” confirmed, can allow both parents
and children to make this shift as well.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">A number of historical and cultural
factors have influenced our mindset and impacted on our parish practices. The graduation model encourages people to see
sacraments as end goals, instead of moments that invite us into continued
relationship with our Triune God. What
we as church are about in the sacraments of baptism, confirmation and Eucharist
is initiation: bringing people into this life of God lived in the community of
the Church gathered around the table of the Eucharist. Until we as pastors, catechists, religious
educators, sacramental preparation leaders and co-ordinators realize the need
for this shift from graduation to initiation, the people we serve will hardly
be able to make this shift themselves.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span lang="EN-US"><b>Written by Fr. Larry Léger and originally published in Celebrate! </b></span></i><i><b>March –
April 2010</b><o:p></o:p></i></div>
Christian Initiationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07775356773371622760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2382254059945393226.post-12295288994076174512013-11-10T21:07:00.001-05:002014-02-20T23:36:36.020-05:00Preparing to Initiate Children of Catechetical Age – Paradigm Shifts, Part 1<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">The Rite of Christian Initiation of
Adults has been in use in our country for over twenty years. Considerable time and energy have been
devoted to implementing the church’s rites of initiation for adults who come to
our parishes asking for baptism. In addition
to the adults seeking initiation, parish leaders are being approached by
families with children of catechetical age seeking baptism or
reception into Full Communion. (Children who have entered their seventh year are considered to be of catechetical age). </span></span><br />
<br />
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;">A</span> rather elementary survey of parishes
may indicate that one of the common ways to address children of catechetical
age seeking initiation is to meet with the parents and inquire why they have
waited so long to celebrate baptism, provide some basic catechesis on baptism
and then baptize the child on a Sunday afternoon either with the group of
infants or at a separate time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The child
would then join a group of peers and prepare to celebrate confirmation and
first eucharist in the same way as children who had been baptized in the
Catholic Church as infants.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Although at
first glance this response may seem reasonable, it is not in harmony with our
Church’s vision of initiation for children of catechetical age.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Before a parish community can respond to
families with children of catechetical age, paradigm shifts may be required.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; tab-stops: 18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"><em><strong>Children of catechetical age celebrate full initiation</strong></em></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; tab-stops: 18.0pt;">
<b><span lang="EN-US"></span></b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;">O</span>ur Church reminds us that “the
Christian initiation of these children requires both a conversion that is
personal and somewhat developed, in proportion to their age … as with adults
their initiation is marked by several steps.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>(<i>RCIA</i>, 243) The formation of children includes both periods for
catechetical formation and the celebration of the various liturgical rites. </span><span lang="EN-US"><v:shapetype adj="18900" coordsize="21600,21600" id="_x0000_t65" o:spt="65" path="m,l,21600@0,21600,21600@0,21600,xem@0,21600nfl@3@5c@7@9@11@13,21600@0e">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span></span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody>
<tr><td style="background-color: transparent; border: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
</div>
</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<w:wrap anchorx="margin" anchory="margin" type="none"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
<w:anchorlock>
<v:shapetype coordsize="21600,21600" filled="f" id="_x0000_t75" o:preferrelative="t" o:spt="75" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" stroked="f">
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</v:stroke></v:shapetype><span lang="EN-US">It is inappropriate to simply baptize
these children.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Church’s rite is
clear, “the children will receive the sacrament of baptism, the bishop or
priest who baptizes them will also confer confirmation, and the children will
for the first time participate in the liturgy of the eucharist”. (<i>RCIA</i>,
281).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is not appropriate to celebrate
baptism with the child without celebrating confirmation and first eucharist in
the same celebration.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Formation for
children of catechetical age resembles that of adults seeking initiation, not
the preparation and celebration for infants.</span></w:anchorlock></span></span></w:wrap><br />
<w:wrap anchorx="margin" anchory="margin" type="none"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"><w:anchorlock></w:anchorlock></span></w:wrap><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Part I of the </span><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Rite of Christian
Initiation of Adults </i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">is normative and foundational.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">This means that the four periods of formation
and the Rites of Acceptance into the Order of Catechumens, Election and
Scrutinies will shape the initiation journey for children of catechetical age
and adults.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Although the periods of
Evangelization and Precatechumenate, Catechumenate, Purification and
Enlightenment will shape the journey.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Gatherings and times of catechesis for the children will be held with
their families, not the adults.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">A parish
will have only one catechumenate with various activities and times of
catechesis.</span><br />
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Children of catechetical age will celebrate
the sacraments of initiation at one liturgy, normatively the Easter Vigil.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They will continue to gather with their
families for the formal period of mystagogy throughout the Easter Season.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The fully initiated children will continue to
gather each Sunday to be nourished at the table of the Word and Eucharist and
their post-baptismal catechesis will take a path similar to that of children
baptized in infancy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If there is a
Catholic school in the community they will receive ongoing religious education
or they may participate in a parish based religious education.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"><strong><em>Readiness to celebrate the Sacraments of Initiation</em></strong></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">When parents approach the parish seeking
baptism for their infant child the Church welcomes them and provides
catechesis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Church expects and
understands that babies will be baptized into life in Christ in virtue of the
faith of their parents.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We do not wait
until the child is old enough to participate in formal catechesis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Church does expect that the parents be
members of the local parish and active participants in the weekly Sunday
Eucharist.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Readiness to celebrate the
sacrament of baptism with a young child (not yet of catechetical age) is
evident in the faith life of the parents.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: xx-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">The readiness of adults to celebrate the
sacraments of baptism, confirmation and eucharist is reflected in their
relationship with Christ, their participation in the weekly celebration of the
Sunday liturgy of the Word and their desire to live lives modeled and shaped by
gospel values.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Adults who have journeyed
through the periods of Evangelization and Precatechumenate, Catechumenate, and
Purification and Enlightenment have participated in the Liturgy of the Word
each Sunday and been dismissed to break open the Word.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">A parish sponsor and, throughout the period
of Purification and Enlightenment, a godparent, have supported these
adults.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">With members of the parish they
have engaged in works of charity and been apprenticed into living a Catholic
way of life.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">There have been times of
catechesis, reflection, prayer and discussion.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Answers to the three questions the Bishop asks during the Rite of
Election shape the process of discerning their readiness to celebrate the
sacraments of initiation.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Before
declaring the adults “elect”</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">(chosen by
God and affirmed by the Church), the bishop asks their godparents “Have they
faithfully listened to God’s Word proclaimed by the Church, have they responded
to that word and begun to walk in God’s presence, have they shared the company
of their brothers and sisters and joined with them in prayer?” (</span><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">RCIA</i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">,
118)</span><br />
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Readiness to celebrate the sacraments is
not linked to or determined by knowledge acquired.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Too often a major obstacle to celebrating the
sacraments of initiation with children of catechetical age is revealed in expressions
such as, “They don’t know enough” or “if we celebrate full initiation we lose
opportunities to teach them.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To begin
to implement the Church’s vision of initiation for children of catechetical age
we must grapple with the way we as a local parish or diocese determine
readiness to celebrate the sacraments of initiation.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: xx-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Embracing the Church’s vision of
initiation for children of catechetical age may challenge current pastoral
practices. Yet children of catechetical
age are quite capable of a personal relationship with Christ and are eager to
journey through the initiation process.
In a parish a first step is to review Part I of the </span><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">Rite of Christian
Initiation of Adults,</i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> recognizing that it is normative and
foundational. We read and implement Part
II Chapter 1 of the rite in light of Part I.</span><br />
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><em><strong><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span></strong></em></span></span>
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><em><strong><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Written by Catherine Ecker and Originally
published in Celebrate! – January – February 2010.</span></strong> </em></span></span>Christian Initiationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07775356773371622760noreply@blogger.com0