The heart of forming and training missionary disciples in the catechumenate is described in paragraph 75 of the rite, which introduces the Period of the Catechumenate. In particular, it outlines four essential cornerstones upon which the formation of disciples is built: the word of God, the life of the community, the prayer and worship of the church, and the mission of witness to the world.
To unpack what these four cornerstones mean for initiation ministers, we have assembled a lineup of four nationally known leaders in evangelization, catechesis, liturgy, and spiritual formation. Over four consecutive Wednesdays this June, Team Initiation Members will have the opportunity to participate online in live conversations with these pastoral leaders and explore with them how each cornerstone is vital for the initiation journey.
Take a look at the details for each conversation in this members-only speaker series we’re calling “Cornerstones of Formation.”
Wednesday, June 5, 11:00am PDT
Word: Led to the Mystery of Salvation
Donna M. Eschenauer, PhD
Associate Dean and Associate Professor of Pastoral Theology at St. Joseph’s Seminary
Donna Eschenauer is a true authority on Christian initiation, having written extensively on the topic including her book Recruiting and Forming Your Parish Initiation Team.
We are going to discuss with Donna how and why the Word of God is foundational for the journey of faith.
Wednesday, June 12, 11:00am PDT
Community: Perfected in Christ
Joe Paprocki, DMin
National Consultant for Faith Formation at Loyola Press
For over 40 years, Joe Paprocki has pioneered innovative ways to form communities of faith. He has authored over 20 books (including his most recent, 8 Steps to Energize Your Faith) and presented workshops and trainings in more than 150 dioceses.
Joe is going to share with us about the importance of immersing seekers in the joys and challenges of Christian community life.
Wednesday, June 19, 11:00am PDT
Worship: Sustained with Divine Blessing
Rita Ferrone
Acclaimed Liturgist and Author
Rita Ferrone is one of the most respected voices on liturgical renewal today. She is the author of Pastoral Guide to Pope Francis’s Desiderio Desideravi.
Rita will delve into how transformative worship opens hearts to intimate encounters with the paschal mystery of Jesus.
Wednesday, June 26, 11:00am PDT
Witness: Building Up the Church
Julianne Stanz
Storyteller, Author, and Director of Discipleship Outreach at Loyola Press
Julianne Stanz has crisscrossed the nation leading retreats and workshops on evangelization. She is the author of Braving the Thin Places: Celtic Wisdom to Create a Space for Grace and Start with Jesus: How Everyday Disciples Will Renew the Church.
Julianne will explore how a life of witness is the culminating, essential cornerstone that flows from and connects all the others.
This series is open to all Team Initiation Members. To get 30% off your first year of membership and save your seat for these important conversations, click here.
We’re thrilled to be able to offer this important formation opportunity as we continue to breathe new life into our ministry of initiation. Sign up to become a Team Initiation Member, then mark your calendars for the four Wednesdays in June. Each one starts at 11am PDT time. Prepare your questions for the speakers, and get ready to be inspired!
