A Chapter-a-Day Devotional with Scripture
Sometimes you just want a simple way to grow your faith without having to overthink the plan. That’s where a devotional rhythm really helps—something structured, but not overwhelming. Journey Through Time might not look like a devotional at first glance (it’s formatted like a thesis), but if you pace it out, one chapter a day for seven days, it actually reads like a spiritual retreat in disguise.
Each chapter has its own theme—from the roots of the catechumenate to the real-life results of modern-day RCIA. It’s not preachy. It just walks you through the history and heart of Christian initiation in a way that’s thoughtful and reflective. Add in a few Scripture readings to go with each chapter, and boom—you’ve got a devotional plan that brings academic study and personal faith together, one day at a time.
How to Make It a Daily Devotional
The first day is all about the why. Chapter I sets the tone, asking why people enter RCIA and what they’re searching for. Pair it with Jeremiah 29:13: “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” It’s the perfect verse to start a week of reflection. Day two moves into the early Church, and suddenly you’re walking with the first believers. Try Acts 2:42–47 to reflect on their rhythm of teaching, fellowship, and prayer.
As the week goes on, each chapter unpacks a new piece—research methods, data analysis, RCIA stages, and finally, recommendations for ministry. These might sound technical, but they actually show how faith is lived and measured today. One chapter talks about community support. Use Romans 12:4–5 as your companion reading and journal what “belonging” looks like in your life right now.
By the time you hit day seven, you’re reading the summary of the findings and the call to make RCIA more personal, more present. End the week with Philippians 1:6: “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion.” Reflect on what God has already started in your journey—and what might be next. The chapters guide your mind; the verses guide your heart.
The Author Who’s Walked This Journey Too
Dr. Laurence F. Aucella isn’t just someone with research credentials—he’s someone who’s lived what he writes. Over four years, he joined RCIA groups, sat in weekly sessions, and stood beside participants during Easter Vigil Masses. He even served as a sponsor when needed. That lived experience is what makes this book feel more than academic—it’s rooted in the rhythms of real faith formation.
His background in counseling, psychology, and theology makes him the kind of writer who gets both the structure of study and the softness of faith. He doesn’t just report stats—he writes with care. That’s why using this book devotionally works so well. It’s thoughtful, it’s grounded, and it leaves room for your story to enter the conversation.
Journey Through Time: The Catholic Church and Christian Initiation
Dr. Laurence F. Aucella
Journey Through Time: The Catholic Church and Christian Initiation
The Catholic Church and Christian Initiation regards the process of RCIA, the process by which one becomes a convert to the Roman Catholic Faith. It also contains valuable history about Christianity and how it has evolved over the centuries that will aid in nourishing the faith and increased the knowledge of both new converts and […]