forum newsletter

This year, as we prepared for and then celebrated the Riteof Election here in the Archdiocese of Santa Fe for some 250catechumens and the Call to Continuing Conversion foranother 250 candidates, I found myself reflecting once againon the journey by which these men and women came to bein our midst, professing their faith and seeking to live as fol-lowers of Jesus Christ. Working with these liturgies each yearalways draws me back to the heart of Lent. Once again Ifind myself reflecting on my own journey of conversion, ajourney undertaken but not yet completed.

Working in initiation ministry on the diocesan level meansthat I do not have the privilege of sharing the faith journey of

our elect in the same way that their parish leaders do. Yet, I have the privilege ofsharing the journey of these parish leaders, their struggles and conversion experiencesas we work together to deepen our understanding of and implementation of the

process of initiation. Thiswork is not done in a vac-uum and it is not justeducation. I truly realizedthis about 18 years agowhen asked to teach theCatechetics/RCIA courseat Oblate School ofTheology in San Antonio.It is one thing to tell oth-ers about the process, it isquite another to become apart of it – to allow oneselfto be formed and called toconversion as we workwithin the community offaith to help form and to

To Hold in Trust…Challenges and InvitationsBy Linda Krehmeier, Chair, Board of Directors

F rum Volume 27, Issue 1Spring 2010

THE NORTH AMERICAN FORUM ON THE CATECHUMENATE

The Mission of The North AmericanForum on the Catechumenate is thefull implementation in all parishesof the Rite of Christian Initiationof Adults and its implications forreconciliation.

Table of ContentsForum’s Newest Institute:Evangelizing Parish...................2

Generous Supporters:Matching Gifts Campaign........4

Forum's Easter Appeal.............5

Join Work of the Catholic Coalition on Climate Change ..................5

Resource Reviews .....................7

A Concise Guideto Adult Faith Formation

The Creed: ApostolicFaith in ContemporaryTheology

When They Come Home:Ways to WelcomeReturning Catholics

Words of Faith:Our Prayers

2010 Calendar.........................15

Linda Krehmeier

Continued on page 6

“Working in initiation ministry on the dioce-san level means that I do not have the privi-lege of sharing the faith journey of our electin the same way that their parish leaders do.Yet, I have the privilege of sharing the jour-ney of these parish leaders, their strugglesand conversion experiences as we worktogether to deepen our understanding of andimplementation of the process of initiation.”

The Evangelizing ParishInstitute is Forum’s newestformation offering. Diocesesare increasingly asking aboutit and offering to cosponsorit. In fact, this year one dio-cese is offering it as the con-tinuing education experiencefor its clergy.

The following summarydescription of the institute isintended to whet parishleaders’ spiritual appetitesfor this powerful formation

experience. It is a 2-day event that immerses partici-pants in the Church’s vision of evangelization, developsdeep enthusiasm for and attachment to this vision, andgrounds this enthusiasm in some practical applicationsin the life of their parishes. Participants in the instituteinclude all parish leaders: ordained, lay, paid, volunteer,all ministry coordinators (e.g., liturgical ministries, edu-cation, catechetics, social outreach), etc. As Pope PaulVI declared: “The Church exists to evangelize.”

Overall Goal of InstituteThe institute’s overall goal is to present the

Church’s vision of evangelization in such a way thatparticipants feel compelled to reflect it in their ownlives and to help their parishes become evangelizingcommunities. This provides the ground for theChurch’s ministry of initiation.

To achieve this, the Evangelizing Parish Institute has several specific objectives:

• To provide a process in which the participants experi-ence the scriptural and liturgical bases for the visionof evangelization

• To invite participants to deepen their own commit-ment to evangelization

• To challenge participants to explore the connectionsbetween this vision and their parish’s way of life, withSunday Eucharist at the heart

• To provide working sessions in which parish leaderscraft some ways their parishes can take up the task ofbeing an evangelizing parish

• To connect evangelization with the ministries of initi-ation and social justice

Institute DynamicsThe institute begins with the scripture of Genesis,

the story of the garden, as the foundational image of aworld in which God’s people are in right relationshipwith God, one another, and the world as a whole. Therestoration of this garden of right relationship in Christis the goal of evangelization, God’s very own transform-ing, redemptive work in which we are privileged to takepart. The Acts of the Apostles from the Easter seasonlectionary then provides the basis for deepening thisvision and the participants’ enthusiasm for how thefaith of Christians is intended to change the world.

The institute then moves to the Gospel of Matthewon the day of Pentecost for the full image of an evan-gelized and evangelizing people. It asks the questionhow this image can take concrete flesh in the parishesrepresented among the participants—how might wechange the world, one step at a time. The event con-cludes with the celebration of the Sunday Vigil Massand breaks open the image of the Sunday Eucharist as aprimary form of evangelization.

Come and SeeCheck the Forum calendar for an Evangelizing Parish

Institute near you. Go to www.naforum.org and clickon Calendar. Come and see how this incomparable for-mation experience can help evangelize your parish lead-ers and people!

SPRING 2010 2 FORUM NEWSLETTER

FORUM’S NEWEST INSTITUTE

Evangelizing Parish: Vision, Passion, PracticeBy Jim Schellman, Executive Director

Jim Schellman


The North American Forum on the Catechumenate125 Michigan Ave., NE Washington, DC 20017-1004(202) 884-9758 Fax (202) 884-9747 www.naforum.org [email protected]

Mission The North American Forum on the Catechumenate (Forum) is an international network of pastoral ministers, liturgists, catechists, and theologians united to share the vision and practice of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults.

Mission Statement The mission of The North American Forum on the Catechumenate is the full implementation in all parishes of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults and its implications for reconciliation.

The FORUM Newsletter is published three times a year by The North American Forum on the Catechumenate and is available, free ofcharge, to all interested persons or institutions. Please address all correspondence to the address listed above.

Permission is granted to all subscribers of the FORUM Newsletter to reprint any articles or news items in the newsletter (permissionnot granted for graphics and copyrighted text). Include the following notation with the reprint:

"Reprinted from the FORUM Newsletter, (Date). No further reproduction permitted without permission. For more information con-tact The North American Forum on the Catechumenate, 125 Michigan Avenue, NE, Washington, DC 20017-1004- Send a copy of thereprint to Forum for our records. Copyright © 2010, The North American Forum on the Catechumenate.

.Board of DirectorsRev. William Burke

Ottawa, Ontario

Mr. Steve JancoForest Park, Illinois

Ms. Linda Krehmeier,

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Sr. Priscilla Lemire, RJMManchester, New Hampshire

Sr. Miriam Malone, SNJMLos Gatos, California

Mr. Michelle MillerOttawa, Ontario

Rev. Richard VegaChicago, Illinois

StaffMr. James M. Schellman

Executive Director, ext. 4

Ms. Aleli BeloniaInstitute Manager, ext. 3Business Support, ext. 2

FounderRev. James B. Dunning (1937-1995)

Theological Foundation The Mission of Forum is grounded in atheology based on the experience of

✦ God’s gracious initiative ✦ the paschal mystery of death and resurrection in

Jesus Christ ✦ the prophetic power of word and sacrament ✦ the shared life and wisdom of the people of God ,

graced and sinful ✦ listening to the voice of the poor and oppressed ✦ conversion to the freedom of disciples ✦ working for justice and peace for the world

Formational Principles To remain faithful to the vision ofthe Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, Forum adheres tothese principles:

✦ Initiation begins with evangelization leading to conversion.

✦ Catechesis, community, liturgy, and mission are formative.

✦ All cultural gifts are honored and celebrated. ✦ The methods of theological reflection are pastoral.

✦ The processes of adult learning are normative.Organizational Traits Forum’s operations, behaviors, attitudes,and actions exhibit these traits:

✦ Excellence: The highest level of competence, creativity, andprofessionalism are strived for at all times.

✦ Stewardship: Human, material, environmental, andfinancial resources are administered with responsibili-ty and accountability.

✦ Respect: The precepts that all life is sacred, that eachhuman being is unique, and that all deserve to betreated with dignity are affirmed in speech and action.

✦ Collaboration: Cooperation, consultation, communication, and networking are normative for all Forum projects.

✦ Inclusivity: Forum relies on the diversity of giftsamong its members and proactively seeks a full rangeof diversity in all areas of its ministry.

✦ Integrity: Honesty, justice, and ethical behavior arehallmarks of Forum’s work.


Forum’s Sixth Annual Matching Gifts Campaign was launched in November 2009 and concluded atthe end of the year. Over the years, this Campaign has become an essential means of support for Forum’smission in the year following. We thank the many Forum members and friends who took part. Specialthanks go to the large donors who provided the challenge grant to kick off the Campaign—

Those who generously gave $200 or more to help match the challenge grant were—

Generous Supporters of Forum’s 6th Annual Matching Gifts Campaign

Mike Bassett

Mike and Kathy Bates

Scott & Kathleen Brown

Diocese of Lafayette(Louisiana)

Diocese of Springfield in Illinois

James Challancin

John Durbin

James Field

Linda Krehmeier

William & Helen Lyons

Jennifer Manier

Archdiocese of Santa Fe

James and AndreaSchellman

Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary

Victoria Tufano

Rob Doerschner

Steve & Kathleen Hopkins

John Page

Thomas Weis


Forum’s Easter Appeal—for Cheerful GiversDear Member and Friend of Forum,

This Easter Season we rejoice anew in the great gift of Baptism. In communi-ties of faith throughout the world, the Lord has brought to birth thousands ofnew disciples fired by the Holy Spirit for the Lord’s own dear mission in ourneighborhoods, nation, and world.

These newly minted disciples of Christ have joined a great work, the Church’swork of helping to transform the world as we know it into the world Godintends. The economic realities in our families and communities tell the storyyet again of a world still tone-deaf in so many ways to the Lord’s generous, life-giving mission. Together with us, our neophytes have so much work to do, thehard work both of charity and of justice.

Help Forum continue to foster this central, disciple-making work of our community of faith. Forum’s incom-parable ministry formation events are raising up a new generation of pastoral leaders who share your passionfor evangelization leading to initiation and full discipleship for the sake of Christ’s mission.

Please consider redirecting some of your giving this year to Forum’s ministry. We must raise 15 % of ouroperating needs through your generosity. No gift is too small. Those who can contribute $200 or morewill be honored by name in the Forum Newsletter.

Please make your donation online at www.naforum.org or mail it to:

The North American Forum on the CatechumenateP.O. Box 79459, Baltimore, MD 21279-0459 USA

In Christ, risen and gloriously among us in these holy 50 Days!

James M. Schellman, Executive Director

The North American Forum on the Catechumenate is a not-for-profit organization in the U.S. with a 501 (c) 3 IRS ruling. Contributions to Forum are 100% tax deductible under current U.S. law.

Join the Work of the Catholic CoalitionBy signing up at www.catholicsandclimatechange.org you will be kept up-to-date on how you can put your faithful stewardship into action. You willreceive regular email and action alerts reflecting the U.S. Bishops’ publicpolicy priorities as well as news on efforts to care for creation from theVatican, the U.S. Bishops, state Catholic conferences, dioceses, and parishes.

Links for further information:

www.catholicclimatecovenant.orgwww.jubileeusa.org/climatewww.unfccc.int.

Easter 2010


journey with our elect and candidates. Paragraph 75 ofthe Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults outlines for us thefocus of the catechumenate – each time I work withparish leaders and we spend time on this paragraph I findmyself asking the same questions – Do I live this? Do welive this?

As a member of the Board of Forum over the last yearand now as I begin a two-year term as chair, I realizeeven more clearly that this formation, this conversion isthe work of Forum under the inspiration of God’s HolySpirit. For years Forum’s Institutes have provided count-less parish and diocesan leaders the opportunity toimmerse themselves in formational experiences designedto call all participants to live their baptismal commitmentin the context of a community of faith and to deepen theinitiation experiences of those to whom they minster.

In today’s world, Forum is being called to explore newways of sharing its vision and resources. Our instituteswill always be the heart of Forum. In the spirit of theearly voices of Forum, we are committed to the realiza-tion of a fully implemented Rite of Christian Initiation ofAdults resulting from evangelization and conversionthrough catechesis, liturgy, discipleship, and mission.We are challenged to discover the approaches andprocesses that will be most effective in our incrediblymulticultural Church in the United States and Canada.I invite you to join other Forum members in supportand prayer as the Board explores the possibilities thatfaith, creativity, cultural sensitivity, and technology placebefore us – challenges and invitations in the journey ofconversion leading to initiation and full discipleship.Challenges and invitations also for the future of Forum.

Continued from page 1


My first reactionupon reading NeilParent’s new book,A Concise Guide toAdult FaithFormation, was“where was this bookwhen I first beganministry in AdultFaith Formation 30+years ago?” Thoughchurch documents sincethe early 1970’s havegiven voice to the con-cept of adult educationas the “chief form of cate-chesis” (GeneralCatechetical Directory, #20[1971]), no resource that Ihad seen then, nor since,gives such a completeoverview of the approachesto adult learning and anunderstanding of the varyingneeds of adults as this guide.

In this latest book in theConcise Guide Series, NeilParent draws upon his vast experience in adult faith for-mation and addresses the impact of today’s culture uponthe ability of adults to understand and live our faith. Hechallenges parishes to “bridge the gap between religionand life.” A parish that recognizes that it exists to bring

about the reign of God and that is activelyinvolved through word and action in bringingthat Good News to others is a parish that

understands the connectionbetween mission and adultfaith formation. Those of uswho minister to adults in theRite of Christian Initiationrecognize as a “given” thatChristian faith is not a set ofdoctrines but a way of beingin the world inspired bythose doctrines. It is afaith that must make itsway to the heart, not justbe implanted in the head.It is a continuous, life-long process.

In an easy to readformat, interspersedwith personal storiesfrom his own parishand adult faith forma-tion experiences,Parent presents anhistorical overviewof church docu-ments relating toadult faith forma-tion, the keydynamics relatingto adult learning,

suggested approaches tolearning needs analysis, as well as program planning

guidance and checklist. Each chapter includes reflec-tion questions which would facilitate study and discus-sion by a parish faith formation team. There are alsosections on the purposes of an adult faith formationteam, its composition, and techniques for recruitmentand support and training.

RESOURCE REVIEW

A Concise Guide to Adult Faith FormationBy Neil A. ParentPublished by Ave Maria Press, $15.95 (U.S.), 174 pages

Reviewed by Marguerite Main


RESOURCE REVIEW

All of us who have been part of adult faith formationministry know the frustrations we face, one of the mostuniversal being low attendance or lack of motivation forpeople to attend programs we put on. Parent provides avariety of strategies and techniques to motivate adults,recognizing that there is no one factor to influence adultsto attend. He presents ways to respond to the differenttype of learners and the importance of recognizing anadult’s experience in their learning process. He alsostresses the importance of parish life, as he notes that oneprimary way a parish teaches is the way it mediatesCatholic life through its liturgies, rituals, structures, serv-ices, and commissions. This challenges us to look at ourparish through the eyes of a visitor or new-comer and ask what the parish is commu-nicating through its lived experience. Hestates that “taking time to think throughthe lived messages of a parish will greatlyhelp an adult education committee offerlearning experiences that bear good poten-tial for success” (Guide, pp. 111-112).

A valuable addition to this book is theappendix. Included in this appendix areexcerpts from relevant church documents,including the Rite of Christian Initiation ofAdults (RCIA) and what it has to sayabout the formation process that serves asa model for catechesis (see RCIA #75).Also presented for reflection and study arequestions for evaluating how our parish iscommunicating about Catholic lifethrough its activities and its structures,ways to provide effective promotionalmaterial, and an extensive program plan-ning guide. There are also resources forintergenerational learning, which is gain-ing popularity in more and more parishes.

In addition to being a valuable guidefor anyone involved in adult faith forma-

tion, A Concise Guide to Adult Faith Formation can be aneffective tool for parish staffs and leaders. Parent hashelpful suggestions for assisting parishes in assessing howthe lived experience of the parish reflects or does notreflect the stated mission of the parish. I would stronglyrecommend this resource for all adult formation direc-tors and others involved in parish adult leadership roles.

Marguerite Main is currently a Forum Team member and consultant to theSeattle Archdiocesan RCIA Committee. She has thirty- five years experi-ence in adult faith formation and RCIA, including six years on the Boardof the North American Forum on the Catechumenate.


Berard L. Marthaler’s revised and expanded TheCreed belongs not only on the shelf of every cate-chist who ministers to adults, but is unequivocallyan essential resource for those who minister to cate-

chumens. Once “elected” to the sacraments ofinitiation at the beginning of Lent, these new-comers to the faith stand before God and the

Christian community to professtheir belief in all that theCatholic Church teaches thatGod has revealed—all truthsinherent in the Nicene Creed.It is one thing to profess suchtruth with conviction, it isquite another to delve deeplyinto what is meant by eachphrase uttered. The forma-tion of catechumens mustinclude the latter. It is nota blind faith to which wegive assent; it is aninformed faith.

The Church exists towitness to the majesty ofGod, to give God duepraise and worship andto generate itself. Oneway the Church accom-plishes this is by spread-ing the Christiankerygma—apostolicfaith in Christ and theChrist event.Marthaler asserts thatapostolic faith can bereduced to general

creedal statements such asJesus descended from David; he was Messiah and Sonof God; he suffered, died, rose again; he sits at theFather’s right hand; all who repent and are baptizedwill have their sins forgiven, etc.

While many different Christian creedal formulaswere in circulation in antiquity, they all includedthe articles of faith just enumerated. They all wit-

RESOURCE REVIEW

The Creed: Apostolic Faith in Contemporary TheologyBy Berard L. Marthaler, OFMPublished by Twenty-Third Publications, Paper, $34.95 (U.S.)

Reviewed by Mary Birmingham


RESOURCE REVIEW

nessed not simply to articles of belief, but to profoundtransformation of body, soul, and spirit by those whoprofessed them. Can the same be said today of thosewho similarly profess adherence to such creeds? Such isMarthaler’s concern and reason for writing this worthycatechetical resource.

The author’s intention in revising his first seminal edi-tion of The Creed is to aid in the effort of contemporarytheologians to “restore meaning and relevance to theclassic creeds” (Creed, p. 13) so that they not diminishinto obsolescence but insteadprovide the same opportunityfor metanoia that was afford-ed to the first communitieswho bravely staked their liveson their profession of them.He provides a thoroughreview of the development,purpose, function, and differ-ences between various creedsthroughout the ages.

Marthaler insists thatresources that center solely ondoctrinal issues, to the neglectof cultural and social factors and liturgical contexts, pro-vide a very limited perspective of the doctrine that isexplicated. Thus, in his effort to provide a well-bal-anced, broad-spectrum exegesis of the Creed we profess,Marthaler goes beyond mere doctrinal exegesis and sup-plements it with biblical, theological, liturgical, and his-torical insights and contexts. Scattered throughout thebook are interesting historical vignettes and anecdotalmaterial that situate the theology within real-life com-munities—a lived faith.

He reminds his readers that humans must expresstheir deepest beliefs in verbal formulations. Such “formu-lations are at best feeble attempts to capture transcen-dent mystery in finite language” (p. 103). The first com-munities professed and celebrated that transcendent mys-tery with passion. The language we inherited from them,

while limited, is nonetheless their legacy to us today.Through it we share their experience and are one withour ancestors in faith. Such finite language, whetherancient or contemporary, is faith seeking expression.There is, however, a risk of such language finding its wayto dusty shelves where stale propositions and formulaslanguish in perpetuity. It is the Church’s job to keepsuch languishing from taking place, to assist each genera-tion in expressing a relevant faith for today. Marthaler’sbook is a great companion to the catechisms of our tra-

dition that articulate ourfaith and formulate ourcreed. Catechisms tell uswhat we believe; Marthalertells us why we believe it.

It is incidentally notewor-thy to draw attention to thefirst chapter and its exegesisof the ancient presentationof the creed to catechumens(see p.6). He providesinsightful explanatory mate-rial of the ancient rite that isstill celebrated in today’s

Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults. The genius ofMarthaler’s resource is that in very readable fashion itprovides the historical and theological synthesis of everyarticle of faith to which catechumens give assent. Trulythis should be in every initiation minister’s arsenal ofresource material.

Mary Birmingham is the director of liturgy, music, and Christian ini-tiation and is vision director for Whole Community Catechesis atAscension Parish in Melbourne, Florida. She has her MA in Liturgyand Theology from St. John’s University, Collegeville, MN. A Teammember of Forum, Mary has worked on the international, national,and diocesan levels in the area of initiation and sacramental and litur-gical catechesis. She is the author of the 3-volume Word andWorship Workbook, Years A, B, C (Paulist Press) and Year RoundCatechumenate (Liturgy Training Publications).

“…in his effort to provide a well-bal-anced, broad-spectrum exegesis of theCreed we profess, Marthaler goes beyondmere doctrinal exegesis and supplementsit with biblical, theological, liturgical,and historical insights and contexts.”


It was delightful to enter the story ofthese two authors who themselves haveexperienced the process about which theywrite. Their book has the straightforwardsimplicity of their wisdom and insights. Theintroductory chapters establish a perspective

and offer statistics that are helpful. The first time I read it through I learned

about the experiences of the authors andhow that influenced how they continue tofacilitate the program in their parish andministries. They have certainly been “set onfire” and are glad to share their insightswith others through this little volume. Ifound that their urban/suburban Virginialocation differs from many other parishpopulation profiles and some insightsresonated, while some comments aboutother programs and the characteristicsof returnees seemed too narrow, andsomewhat judgmental.

The flow of the short book includedbackground on their paths back toactive participation in the CatholicChurch, as well as insightful recom-mendations about attitudes of parishleaders and team members, parishlife and readiness to welcome thoseseeking to return to the Church,and assessing ways to reach out toinvite inactive Catholics back tothe parish.

The later chapters focus onsuggestions for gathering and dis-cerning parish team leaders andmembers, for the initial meeting

with each returnee, structuring thesessions, and their suggestions for asequence of topics to be covered in the seriesof eight or so sessions, with a final chapteron “What next?” considerations. The sec-tion on Jesus in the chapter “Feeding theFlock” suggests a subtopic of “How is beingCatholic different from being Christian”which is a strange title, but probably is

RESOURCE REVIEW

When They Come Home: Ways toWelcome Returning CatholicsBy Melanie Rigney and Anna M. LanavePublished by Twenty-Third Publications, $9.95 (U.S.), 86 pgs.

Reviewed by Clare Colella


RESOURCE REVIEW

designed to speak the language of those who have beeninfluenced by evangelical Christian terminology.Catholics ARE Christians.

The format of the chapters is helpful in that eachincludes bullet points or side-bars that are practical andreadily adaptable to others’needs. Several of the sidebarscontinued the story ofreturnees and give insightsfrom the authors.

The Appendix includes abrief descriptive listing ofsome formal programs, train-ing and resources for min-istries with returningCatholics. Some of these arealso helpful for a wider rangeof ministries as well. I appre-ciated the listings, but found ita good beginning, rather thancomprehensive.

The second time I read thebook I was looking for helps in discerning the needs andreadiness of persons who are seeking a possible path backto the Church. I didn’t find helpful points for that orfor asking and responding to the immediate as well asdeeper questions of returnees. I found little grounding inspirituality in the book and few references about the lifeof discipleship, or relationship with God and JesusChrist lived out in the context of prayer and an activelife in the Church. I found precious little about theScriptures or deeper appreciation of the liturgical andsacramental life of the Church in the “Feeding theFlock” or “content” section of the book.

The issues of returnees run a huge gamut today, butthe authors offer a set sequence of topics without high-lighting the need for flexibility, pastoral care, “takehome” resources for participants or even training or

resources for team members. There is an assumed expec-tation that team members are well versed in adult learn-ing styles and have the skills of adult faith formation.Simply having been through the journey back to the

Church is not enough toqualify someone to be ateam leader or team mem-ber in this sensitive andsacred process. It may be agood beginning, but thereare a lot of aspects in thisministry that I had to fill infrom my own experience ofthirty-some years of parishministry. I would haveliked to have some of theprinciples of the baptismalcatechumenate illustratedas “the inspiration for cate-chesis in the Church”(GDC # 90-91)

This volume will behelpful especially when it is

used along with other program and formation resources,as recommended in the Appendix, and a variety ofresources to use in the process with participants who areseeking a return home to the Church. Throughout thisbook, the good work of the authors in taking the jour-ney home to the Church themselves and continuing toshare the faith journey of others is evident.

Clare Colella is the director of Adult Initiation and Adult ConfirmationFormation for Our Lady of the Assumption Parish, San Bernardino,California, where she also serves as facilities manager. She is a consultantfor the San Bernardino diocesan Office of Worship and serves as an adultChristian initiation resource for the Diocese. Clare is a long-timeForum Team member and former member of Forum’s Board of Directors.She has authored several articles and contributed to books on adult initia-tion ministry and parish ministry, and has recently co-authored a resourceon reconciliation for Small Faith Communities.

“This volume will be helpful especially

when it is used along with other program

and formation resources, as recommended

in the Appendix, and a variety of

resources to use in the process with par-

ticipants who are seeking a return home

to the Church.”


In the MissionDirection Statementof my religious com-munity, the PaulistFathers, it is statedthat, “Attentive to themovement of the HolySpirit in our midst, andfaithful to the example ofSt. Paul, we recommitourselves to evangelizationin all its forms as our cen-tral mission.” Indeed,evangelization – proclaim-ing the good news of JesusChrist – is the essentialmission of the Church.However, along with thisproclamation is the respon-sibility to nurture withinthose who hear this goodnews a strong foundation in prayer, the lifting up oftheir hearts and minds to God. In particular, this foun-dation will be enhanced a great deal by introducingthem to those prayerful texts that have endured through-out the ages, and which have become sources of endear-ment for many. For this reason, any parish faith com-munity would do well in using Words of Faith: Our

Prayers, published by Ave Maria Press, a ministryof the Indiana province of Holy CrossCongregation.

Words of Faith: Our Prayers is a series oftwelve well-designed pages that could be used asbulletin inserts for the entire parish community

or as handouts for any type offaith formation gatherings, bethey catechetical sessions for theRite of Christian Initiation ofAdults (RCIA), religious educa-tion classes, or small-group dis-cussions. Each insert focuseson one particular prayer, offer-ing information on the historyof the text, the doctrinebehind it, and the spiritualtradition it supports. As aneducational tool, this infor-mation is both instructiveand enlightening. As asource of prayer itself, eachpage’s layout is attractiveand presents these “mostancient and beloved texts”in an elegant manner.

The twelve prayers pre-sented are the Angelus;Benedictus; Act ofContrition; Lord’s Prayer;

Gloria; Magnificat; Come, HolySpirit; Canticle of Simeon; Salve Regina; the Sign of theCross; the Rosary; and Eternal Rest. Twelve differentauthors, ranging from clergy to professors to directors ofdiocesan offices and spiritual directors present the infor-mation following the same format for each insert: WePray presents the text of the prayer, with instructions onhow that prayer is traditionally prayed, e.g. the Angelusand its call and response arrangement. We Practice

RESOURCE REVIEW

Words of Faith: Our PrayersBulletin Inserts on the history, doctrine, and spiritu-al traditions of twelve of our most ancient andbeloved prayers

Edited by Keith J. EganPublished by Ave Maria Press, $8.95 (U.S.) for pack

of 50, subscription discounts, 12 pages, 24 sidesReviewed by Edward Koharchik, CSP


RESOURCE REVIEW

teaches when and how the prayer is used in the traditionof the Church, along with background information onthe prayer’s development. We Believe looks at the theol-ogy of the prayer, the meaning of the words prayed, andhow this meaning influences Catholic identity. Finally,We Live offers suggestions on how the prayer can beused in daily life and what impact it has in living outour Catholic faith.

Besides these four presentations, several of the insertsinclude sections called “Did You Know?” and “A Bit ofHistory.” These are particularly interesting as they giveadded information on the backgroundand development of the text. Suggestionsalso are given on how to present theseprayers to children, and how these chil-dren can benefit from learning the prayersand making them a part of their owngrowth in faith.

Depending on how a parish would liketo utilize these handouts, Words of Faith isavailable on a subscription basis, or canbe purchased as individual monthlyissues. The price of $8.95 for a pack offifty is quite reasonable for the quality ofeach presentation.

Included on each handout is a quoteby Keith J. Egan, PhD, the series editorof the publication: “Deep in everyhuman heart is a desire for the living Godthat expresses itself in prayer. In theCatholic tradition, some prayers havebecome classic expressions of what thehuman heart seeks. Words of Faith: OurPrayers explores prayers that for centurieshave revealed a faith that fosters a deep,personal, growing, and loving relationshipwith Jesus Christ. These prayers teach usmuch about who we are and about theGod to whom we belong.”

Words of Faith: Our Prayers is a wonderful resource forcatechizing and enabling parishioners, catechumens,children, and all seekers to grow deeper in their prayerlife and in their relationship with the God who seeksthem out first. Highly recommended.

Paulist Father Ed Koharchik is the pastor of St. Martin de PorresCatholic Church in Dripping Springs, Texas, and a Team member withthe North American Forum on the Catechumenate. He also leads parishmissions, workshops, and days of reflection on the RCIA and issues inliturgy and liturgical music.


2010 CALENDAR

■ THE INITIATIONEXPERIENCE INSTITUTES

present the compelling vision and pastoral skills toimplement the initiation process and emphasize therelationship of good liturgy to good catechesis.

BEGINNINGS & BEYOND INSTITUTE

BEGINNINGS “PLUS” INSTITUTEJune 23-26, 2010, Diocese of Camden (NJ) - BilingualJune 24-27, 2010, Archdiocese of Montreal

(Quebec)—with focus on adults and childrenJune 29-July 2, 2010, Diocese of Amarillo (TX)—

with focus on adults and childrenJuly 28-31, 2010, Cathedral of Imm. Conception,

Fort Wayne, IndianaAugust 12-15, 2010, Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston

(WV) – with focus on adults and childrenAugust 19-22, 2010, Diocese of Victoria (TX)—

with focus on adults and children

BEGINNINGS INSTITUTEApril 29-May 1, 2010, Diocese of Boise (ID)—

with afternoon dialogue sessions in Spanish July 23-25, 2010, Diocese of Arlington (VA)—SpanishAugust 13-15, 2010, Diocese of San Diego (CA)—

Spanish September 30-October 2, 2010, Diocese of Reno (NV)October 15-17, 2010, Archdiocese of New Orleans (LA)November 4-6, 2010, Archdiocese of

St. Paul & Minneapolis (MN)

■ INITIATION IN RURAL AND SMALL PARISHES(Diocesan Events)

March 20, 2010, Mystagogy, Diocese of Charlotte (NC)

■ THE FOCUS ON INITIATION INSTITUTES

concentrate on specific aspects of initiation usingpresentations, celebrations of the rites, and smallgroup discussions. It is preferable that they followthe Initiation Experience Institutes.

CATECHUMENATEAugust 6-7, 2010, Diocese of Stockton (CA)August 20-21, 2010, Archdiocese of Los Angeles (CA)

PURIFICATION AND ENLIGHTENMENTAugust 19-20, 2010, Diocese of Gaylord (MI)October 22-23, 2010, Diocese of Rockville Centre (NY)

MYSTAGOGYAugust 24-25, 2010, Diocese of Green Bay (WI)

CHILDREN AND CHRISTIAN INITIATIONJuly 30-31, 2010, Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston (TX)August 6-7, 2010, Diocese of Des Moines (IA)August 13-14, 2010, Dioceses of

San Jose & Monterey (CA)August 27-28, 2010, Blessed Sacrament Parish,

North Aurora, IllinoisNovember 5-6, 2010, Archdiocese of Cincinnati (OH)

CONCERNING THE BAPTIZEDApril 30-May 1, 2010, Diocese of Erie (PA)May 7-8, 2010, Archdiocese of Ottawa (Ontario)May 14-15, 2010, Archdiocese of Baltimore (MD)June 11-12, 2010, Diocese of Little Rock (AR)June 18-19, 2010, Diocese of Lafayette (IN)July 9-10, 2010, Archdiocese of Dubuque (IA)July 16-17, 2010, Diocese of Knoxville (TN)July 23-24, 2010, Archdiocese of Oklahoma City (OK)August 6-7, 2010, Diocese of New Ulm (MN)August 27-28, 2010, Diocese of Las Vegas (NV)October 22-23, 2010, St. Joseph Parish,

St. John, New Brunswick

■ THE INITIATING COMMUNITY INSTITUTES

explore advanced issues of implementation for expe-rienced ministers as they broaden the initiation expe-rience to include the entire community. Smallgroups discuss, share, and critique models.

DEVELOPING THE MINISTRIES

FURTHERING THE INITIATION EXPERIENCE

PRAYING THE RITESOctober 7-9, 2010, Diocese of Lafayette (LA)

ECHOING GOD’S WORDJune 25-26, 2010, Diocese of Shreveport (LA)

IMAGING THE INITIATION PROCESSIN SMALL CHURCH COMMUNITIES

■ AMBASSADORS OF CHRIST:BUILDING RECONCILINGCOMMUNITIES

explores the ministry of reconciliation ❧ invitesparticipants to reflect on the vision and process of

conversion and reconciliation ❧ explores anunderstanding of a reconciling community rooted ininitiation ❧ examines present processes and futurepossibilities for reconciling ministry in the parishMay 20-22, 2010, Archdiocese of Louisville (KY)

■ THE VISION OF INITIATIONMINISTRY CONFERENCES(Diocesan Events)

introduce the vision and practice of initiation in atwo-day format for individual dioceses, formationinstitutions, and religious communities. For clergyand other pastoral ministers, together or in separateconferences.

■ THE VISION OF INITIATIONMINISTRY CONFERENCES(Diocesan Events)

introduce the vision and practice of initiation in atwo-day format for individual dioceses, formationinstitutions, and religious communities. For clergyand other pastoral ministers, together or in separateconferences.

■ THE EVANGELIZING PARISH:VISION, PASSION, PRACTICE

develops the vision and practice of evangelizationand how this creates parishes of missionEvangelizing Parish InstitutesJune 11-12, 2010, Washington Theological Union (WDC)September 17-18, 2010, Diocese of Sault Ste-Marie

(Ontario)September 24-25, 2010, Archdiocese of Omaha (NE)October 22-23, 2010, Diocese of Manchester (NH)October 29-30, 2010, Diocese of Sacramento (CA)November 12-13, 2010, Diocese of Memphis (TN)December 3-4, 2010, (bilingual) Diocese of

Palm Beach (FL)Evangelizing Parish ConferencesMay 28-29, 2010, Western Conference for the

Catechumenate, Saskatoon (Saskatchewan)June 15-16, 2010, Clergy of the Diocese of Nelson (BC)

■ TO BE DETERMINEDDiocese of Charlotte (NC)

The North American Forum on the Catechumenate’s Pastoral Training Institutes provide ministers—volunteer and paid, fulland part-time, lay and clergy - with deeper understanding of the vision of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults and the fun-damental and advanced skills to implement all aspects of the Rite and its implications for reconciliation. Institute leaders areamong North America’s most experienced pastoral ministers, liturgists, catechists, and theologians.

The North American Forum on the Catechumenate125 Michigan Avenue, NE, Washington, DC 20017-1004

(202) 884-9758 • Fax (202) 884-9747 • E-mail: [email protected] our website www.naforum.org for the latest calendar and resource updates

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