On the journey of faith for the catechumens, the role of scripture in discernment holds tremendous significance. As catechumenate team members, it is our responsibility to model the importance of engaging with scripture as a source of guidance and inspiration.
By incorporating scripture into our daily lives and discernment practices, we not only deepen our own understanding of God’s will but also provide a powerful example for the catechumens. In this article, we will explore the profound impact of scripture on discernment, provide practical strategies for incorporating it into our lives, and discuss how catechumens can learn to discern God’s will by following our example.
We Catholics are not known for our familiarity with scripture. Nevertheless, the way we do (or don’t) rely on scripture as a source of discernment will have a direct impact on the catechumens. Scripture is a primary, ongoing source of God’s revelation, providing wisdom and direction for us. Through prayerful reading of scripture, we open ourselves to hear God’s voice and gain insights into God’s will for our lives and our ministry with the catechumens.
Here are some ways we can practice and model engaging with scripture more deeply.
Daily scripture reading
Set aside dedicated time each day for reading and reflecting on scripture. Choose a reading plan or focus on specific passages that align with your current discernment journey. An easy way to do this is to read a passage or two from the upcoming Sunday readings every day. By consistently immersing ourselves in scripture, we deepen our understanding of God’s will and strengthen our ability to guide catechumens.
Prayer and meditation
Continue to find ways to incorporate scripture into your personal prayer time and encourage catechumens to do the same. In addition to focusing on the Sunday readings, you can begin to collect favorite verses from scripture in a prayer journal. Meditate on specific passages that resonate with your discernment process, and invite the Holy Spirit to provide insights and clarity. By modeling this practice, we demonstrate to catechumens the importance of seeking God’s guidance through scripture.
By modeling the practice of incorporating scripture into our personal prayer time, we demonstrate to catechumens the importance of seeking God’s guidance through scripture.
Modeling and inspiring the catechumens
Leading by example: As catechumenate ministers, we are tasked with modeling a life rooted in scripture and discernment. Try regularly sharing with the catechumens your own experiences of how scripture has guided your decisions and actions. Authentic sharing of your actual practice will inspire catechumens to engage with God’s word in their own discernment journeys.
Scripture study: For catechumens who have a little more experience with scripture, consider involving them in your parish Bible study group. Ask the members of the group to help the catechumens learn some basic scripture study skills. Or, if your parish doesn’t have a Bible study, begin a simple scripture study session for them. Explore relevant passages that address discernment, decision-making, and following God’s will. Encourage catechumens to reflect on these passages and apply them to their lives as they seek God’s direction.
Prayerful discernment exercises
Introduce prayer exercises that involve scriptural meditation, encouraging catechumens to engage in personal reflection and seek God’s guidance through scripture. By fostering a habit of prayerful discernment rooted in scripture, you will equip catechumens with a valuable tool for navigating their faith journey.
As catechumenate ministers, engaging with scripture in our own discernment process is crucial for guiding and inspiring catechumens. By incorporating scripture into our daily lives, modeling its importance, and guiding catechumens in their own exploration of God’s word, we will create a strong foundation for discerning God’s will together as we accompany the catechumens on the journey of faith.
