For some people the Catechumenate offers a first encounter with the Christian faith; for others it can be a way back. It may lead either to Baptism, Confirmation or simply to a Renewal of Baptismal Promises. Supported by their clergy, enquirers and members of the congregation explore together. Small groups meet for up to a year.
Genuine welcome accepts enquirers as and where they are. New and old believers travel together on a shared journey of faith. Beliefs and questions are taken seriously.
Enquirers are given plenty of time to explore faith in human-sized groups with people from the local congregation. Exploring the Christian Gospel and human experiences together, people enter into the mainstream of the Church's teaching. Bible and tradition are brought to life for old and new members.
Faith as a Journey means movement and change. People grow at their own speed through the process of conversion which leads them by stages into deeper and more mature faith.
Special services may mark the journey's turning points with the congregation joining in the celebration. These may be informal or follow a developed liturgy rich in symbolism.
Baptism, Confirmation or Renewal of Promises celebrate commitment and belonging. Friends who have accompanied new Christians along the way find their own faith deepened and renewed.
The new Christians reflect on their Baptism, Confirmation or Renewal. They seek to answer God's call in their own special ministry by exploring the link between Word, Sacrament and the world.
The Catechumenate is an idea. an experience, both ancient and contemporary. It is the process followed by the Early Church and was given a new emphasis by the Second Vatican Council. Increasingly other churches, in Europe and America and throughout the world, are using this approach as more adults are seeking to join the Church. It brings new life not just for those who seek, but also for those who accompany them. Parishes which have experienced the Catechumenate have found it offers opportunities to the whole Christian community. Members of the congregation find their own faith and experience renewed and deepened. They receive a new impetus for mission as they learn to speak of God in the language of today's men and women.