Are you comfortable with the idea of “evangelization”? Do you think your parishioners are? Like many of you, I grew up in a time when Catholic evangelization wasn’t at the forefront of our parish life. We were content to be followers, leaving the work of whatever we thought evangelization was to the priests and nuns.
But times have changed. Particularly with the teaching of the Second Vatican Council and every pope in my lifetime, we know that the call to evangelization isn’t just for the clergy and religious—it’s for each one of us, right where we are. Even so, I think many of our parishioners—perhaps even members of our catechumenate teams—still feel uncomfortable with the idea that we are supposed to be evangelizers.
Understanding true evangelization and its challenges
Some of that discomfort might flow from a misunderstanding of what evangelization is—and isn’t. Evangelization isn’t about aggressive proselytizing or forcing our beliefs on others. It’s about creating a culture of encounter, where people can experience the transformative presence of Jesus. As catechumenate ministers, our role is to create opportunities for these life-changing encounters with Christ.
I know the challenges you face. The fear of not knowing enough, the worry about saying the wrong thing, the stress of managing a “program.” But here’s something else I know: your most powerful tool in this ministry is your own lived experience of faith. Your journey, with all its ups and downs, is a testament to God’s enduring love and grace.
Because God is God and because you are filled with God’s Spirit, you always have the chance to transform moments of uncertainty or doubt into opportunities for encounter with Christ—opportunities for evangelization.
Transforming challenges into opportunities
For example, think back to a time when you felt like you had really messed up. And then, miraculously, God did something that turned your disappointment and frustration into a moment of grace. Your challenge became an opportunity. You probably don’t have to think back too far or too hard for an example. Because God is God and because you are filled with God’s Spirit, you always have the chance to transform moments of uncertainty or doubt into opportunities for encounter with Christ—opportunities for evangelization.
The key to becoming an effective evangelist is to remember the times when you’ve felt God’s presence most strongly. Maybe it was during a time of struggle and pain. Or maybe it was a moment of joy that you knew could only come from divine grace. These personal experiences are the heart of your ministry. They’re what make your witness authentic and relatable.
Your role as a compassionate guide
As you engage with seekers, remember that you’re not expected to have all the answers. Your role is to be a compassionate guide, walking alongside others on their faith journey. Share your own stories of seeking, of questioning, of discovering. Let seekers see that faith is a lifelong journey of growth and discovery, not a destination we reach once and for all.
One practical way to build your confidence is to deepen your own spiritual life. Make time for regular prayer and reflection. Read more Scripture, knowing that it is a living word that speaks to your heart. Attend retreats or days of recollection when you can. The more grounded you are in your own faith, the more naturally you’ll be able to share it with others.
Another key aspect of effective evangelization is simply being present and attentive to those around you. Practice active listening. When you’re talking with a seeker, give them your full attention. Ask thoughtful questions. Show genuine interest in their journey. This kind of authentic engagement is far more powerful than any prepared script or lesson plan.
Remember, too, that evangelization happens beyond the confines of formal catechumenate sessions. It happens in the everyday moments of daily life—in the way we greet people, the way we respond to someone asking a question, the way we order coffee, the way we smile at passers-by. Every encounter is an opportunity to reflect Christ’s love.
Evangelization happens beyond the confines of formal catechumenate sessions. It happens in the everyday moments of daily life.
Patience and trust in the process
Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. If you’re not used to sharing your faith openly, start small. Practice with fellow catechumenate team members. Share a brief testimony during a team meeting. The more you do it, the more natural it will become.
Lastly, be patient with yourself and with the process. Building a culture of evangelization takes time. You might not see immediate results, but trust that the Holy Spirit is at work through your efforts. Each small act of welcome, each shared story, each moment of genuine connection is planting seeds that will bear fruit in God’s time.
You are doing vital work in the life of the church. Your willingness to accompany seekers on their faith journey is a beautiful expression of Christ’s love. As you continue in this ministry, may you grow in confidence, find joy in the journey, and experience the deep fulfillment that comes from sharing the good news of God’s love with others.
Remember, you’re not alone in this mission. You’re part of a global community of believers, all striving to make Christ known and loved. Lean on your fellow team members, support one another, and always keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, the source of our hope and the reason for our joy.
