From Insight to Implementation in Your Church Community
Every parish has good intentions—but let’s be honest, good intentions alone don’t change much. We’ve all been in meetings where someone says, “That’s a great idea!” and then… nothing happens. That’s why having a clear, step-by-step plan actually matters. And when those steps are rooted in something researched, tested, and spiritually grounded? Even better.
That’s exactly what you’ll find in the Recommendations section of Journey Through Time by Laurence F. Aucella. These aren’t vague suggestions—they’re actionable ideas built from real-world RCIA experience. The book doesn’t just say what should change, it gives clues on how to make those changes stick. So if your parish is looking to shake things up in a meaningful way, this section could be your new playbook.
Breaking It Down: From Page to Parish
Start with the categories in the book—things like pastoral involvement, catechumenate structure, and sponsor engagement. For each recommendation, ask: “What would this look like in our parish?” If it says to “enhance personal faith-sharing opportunities,” maybe that means weekly RCIA testimonies during announcements. If it recommends better preparation for sponsors, turn that into a mini-training course with clear expectations and support.
One of the most powerful tips is about strengthening post-baptismal formation—what Aucella calls mystagogical support. A lot of parishes drop off after Easter Vigil, but that’s when new Catholics are most vulnerable. The book’s recommendation? Ongoing community integration. In real life, this could mean monthly dinners, follow-up retreats, or pairing up with seasoned parishioners for long-term support.
The key is to translate each recommendation into a specific task: who does it, when, and how it’s measured. That’s how churches move from talk to transformation. Whether you’re a DRE, RCIA leader, or even just a motivated volunteer, this section gives you the backbone to build change that actually lasts.
The Practical Visionary Helping Parishes Take Action
Laurence F. Aucella isn’t just thinking about theology—he’s thinking about how faith communities work. In Journey Through Time, his recommendations don’t float above reality. They’re grounded, specific, and born out of experience with real parishes. He knows the rhythm of church life, the common gaps in RCIA programs, and the value of bridging insight with action. That’s what makes this section so effective—because he’s not just offering theory. He’s offering a plan.
Journey Through Time
The Catholic Church and Christian Initiation
Dr. Laurence F. Aucella
Don’t just talk about change—build it. Use these steps to strengthen RCIA in your parish.