Guide to the Period of Mystagogy
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A Guide to the Period of Mystagogy

Corinna Laughlin, Mary A. Wax, and Stephen S. Wilbricht, csc

Order code: GMYS | 978-1-61671-799-5 | Paperback | 7 x 10 | 144 pages | Language: English | Copyright Year: 2024

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After the excitement of the Easter Vigil, the period of mystagogy can often be overlooked by the initiation team and the neophytes. However, it is an essential part of the Christian initiation process because it helps the neophytes deepen their relationship with Christ and with the Church. Mystagogical reflection is an important part of the spiritual growth of all parishioners—from neophytes to lifelong Catholics—because it invites the faithful to reflect on their encounters with Christ in the sacraments and then consider the transformative effects those encounters have on their daily lives. A Guide to the Period of Mystagogy encourages members of the initiation team to make the most of this period and provides practical support to do so. It includes:

  • An overview of six foundational principles of initiation ministry and how they are applied to the period of mystagogy
  • Theological insights from the early Church’s practice of mystagogy
  • Practical advice for implementing mystagogical reflection in your parish
  • Nine mystagogical reflection sessions that can be used during Easter Time
  • Fifteen mystagogical reflection sessions that can be used during the first year following initiation
  • Encouragement to celebrate the first anniversary of baptism and to incorporate mystagogical reflection into the ongoing faith formation of the whole parish community

“Never again will the period of mystagogy be an afterthought! This book illustrates the significant role mystagogy has in the initiation process. The authors weave a history of mystagogy together with the importance of involving the whole community to inspire a new and exciting perspective on this period. You will also find ready-to-use reflections for mystagogical sessions with the neophytes, fostering in them a practice of prayer they can use throughout their faith journey. This book will have you reimagining how you do mystagogy, how to involve the community in the process, and how to lead meaningful reflections that will bring both neophytes and parishioners to a deeper understanding of their life in Christ.”
— Michelle Tomshack Director of Evangelization St. Bede Catholic Church Williamsburg, Virginia

“Since the promulgation of the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults in 1972, mystagogy has remained an untapped resource for ongoing conversion and discipleship in parishes. The authors present a strong case for recovering this ancient practice of the Church as a source of ongoing renewal for neophytes and parishioners alike. Within these pages, the reader will find practical, realistic steps to begin and strengthen the practice of mystagogy in the parish. Mystagogical reflection sessions, as well as useful suggestions on integrating existing parish activities into the process, make this a helpful resource on the shelf of every Christian initiation team.”
— Katherine Coolidge Director, Parish and Diocesan Services Catherine of Siena Institute Colorado Springs, Colorado

A Guide to the Period of Mystagogy at last demystifies this final and often neglected period of the catechumenal process. Not only does it explain mystagogy in inviting, descriptive language, but it also offers very practical and accessible reflection sessions for initiation ministers to implement in their parishes. As the writers deal realistically with the challenges mystagogy presents, the reader is drawn to the rich potential the period offers, both for the newly initiated and the wider community. This practical ‘how to’ for mystagogy is an invaluable resource for catechumenal teams!”
— Paulette M. Chapman Director of Initiation Ministries (retired)

“This essential resource for the Christian initiation minister offers an easy-to-read review of basic pastoral principles for the catechumenate and how they can be fruitfully experienced in the period of mystagogy. The authors paint a clear picture of what the period of mystagogy can be for the neophyte and the parish. The idea of ‘creating a mystagogical parish’ is well presented, with many helpful mystagogical reflection sessions included that can be used during Easter Time and beyond. This resource is truly a must-have for those who wish to develop an effective mystagogical experience for their neophytes.”
— Oscar Cruz Director of the Catechumenate Archdiocese of New York

This supplement will be available soon.