SAVORING THE MYSTERIES


“The Catholic liturgy is replete with signs and symbols through which the faithful can grow in their understanding of the Mystery of Christ into which the neophytes have been initiated.”


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following the Tird Sunday of Easter which features the Emmaus story, parishioners could speak to the neophytes about Eucharistic devotional opportunities and/or the ministry of Communion to the sick.6 Such visits by different parish ministry participants would provide the newly baptized with both social connections and valuable opportunities to enter into parish ministry.


In addition to continued weekly gatherings, neophytes should be afforded concrete ways to become more integrated into the larger parish community through invitation to adult faith formation events, parish retreats, and community outreach opportunities. Such participation could take place as a group to ease any shyness or self-consciousness on their part. Te RCIA team and the godparents would play an essential role in facilitating this integration into the life of the parish for the neophytes. At Pentecost, the close of this formal period of mystagogy, these new members of the community might attend Mass together, be recognized through a blessing or included in an intention of the Universal Prayer, and be welcomed in a festive parish event.


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