Role of the Coordinator in Christian Initiation

The Role of the Coordinator in Christian Initiation
A Pastoral and Practical Guide, Revised Edition

Donna M. Eschenauer

Order code: ERCCIR | 978-1-61671-833-6 | Paperback | 7 x 10 | 112 pages | Language: English | Copyright Year: 2025

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The coordinator’s role in Christian initiation is essential for developing a rich and fruitful initiation ministry in the parish community. This book will renew veteran coordinators of Christian initiation in their role and introduce novices to the many aspects of their work. It will help coordinators manage their various responsibilities, come to a deeper understanding of the process of Christian initiation, and develop a profound appreciation for the way the liturgical and ritual elements of the baptismal catechumenate lead to an encounter with the living God. Features include:

  • An introduction to the overall vision of the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults, which sets the tone for the whole ministry of initiation
  • Stories of initiation that resonate with the experiences of coordinators
  • Practical steps and advice to help coordinators implement the ritual
  • Suggestions for how to form an initiation team and a vibrant parish ministry
  • Guidance for addressing pastoral concerns that arise during the process of initiation
  • Downloadable forms that help facilitate recordkeeping
  • A glossary of commonly used terms related to initiation

“Having learned so much from this resource in the past, I am grateful that this revised edition offers a wonderful opportunity to be reintroduced to the vision of Christian initiation and to renew our attentiveness to the process of each period and step. While Eschenauer has updated the resource in light of the new translation of the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults, she retains many important features from the first edition. For example, most chapters conclude with practical steps that offer great support for coordinators and provide fruitful ideas for implementing the initiation process in their communities. I find the chapters on administration, catechesis, and pastoral concerns to be truly renewing, helpful, and encouraging for both experienced and new coordinators of initiation.”

—Clare M. Colella Retired Director of Adult Initiation and Faith Formation

Our Lady of the Assumption San Bernardino, CA


“Renewed interest in the Christian initiation of adults seems to grow every year. Donna Eschenauer provides a reliable, easy-to-read guide for both novice and experienced coordinators of initiation ministry. Whether you need a step-by-step process to get your feet on the ground or deeper insights to make your ministry soar, this book has something for you. Eschenauer plainly describes the liturgical rites, the formation of adults, and even canonical issues. She flavors her work with real-life stories, basing her professional research on practical experience. Need a guide for your ministry? Here it is.”

—Fr. Paul Turner Pastor of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception

Kansas City, MO


“Donna Eschenauer’s approach to coordination of Christian initiation is perfect for both new and experienced catechists. She carefully outlines the theology and spirituality of the steps and stages of the process of initiation, providing guidance and recommendations for the coordinator. They are practical, thorough, doable, and oriented to the realities of parish ministry. Part II is especially focused on the pastoral issues and concerns of which every parish coordinator needs to be aware. I will be recommending this book as a valuable resource to those initiation coordinators who call our office for resources and support.”

—D. Todd Williamson Director of the Office for Divine Worship

Archdiocese of Chicago


“Parish initiation directors are often the liaison among the parish team, the initiating assembly, and those seeking to know Christ and his Church. This valuable text offers concise information for both the veteran and novice coordinator. It is well grounded in the OCIA itself—its structure, its vision and its rites. It is enriched with quotations from Church documents, respected scholars, purposeful vocabulary, keen pastoral observations, and practical advice. Eschenauer begins most chapters with a unique story, reminding all of us that this process is a journey of faith in which we are privileged to share.”

—Rita A. Thiron Executive Director

Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions (FDLC) Washington, DC

This supplement will be available soon.