Ever wondered what it really means to become part of the Catholic Church? “Journey Through Time: The Catholic Church And Christian Initiation” by Laurence F. Aucella dives deep into the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA), exploring the historical roots and the personal transformations involved. It’s not just about rituals; it’s about a personal journey to find meaning and connect with something bigger than yourself. The book shows us that conversion is a process, a gradual surrender that leads to a totally new life.
This book also highlights the incredible contributions of converts throughout history. Take Elizabeth Ann Bayley Seton, for example. She switched from the Episcopal Church because she felt that the Roman Catholic Church is the “right faith”, and she went on to found the Sisters of Charity and pioneer American Catholic schools! It’s inspiring to see how these individuals shaped the Church and American society.
“Therefore, prophesy and say to them: Thus says the Lord GOD: Look! I am going to open your graves; I will make you come up out of your graves, my people, and bring you back to the land of Israel. You shall know that I am the Lord, when I open your graves and make you come up out of them, my people! I will put my spirit in you that you may come to life, and I will settle you in your land. Then you shall know that I am the Lord. I have spoken; I will do it oracle of the Lord.”
–An Excerpt from the Book
A Detailed Look at RCIA
“Journey Through Time” offers a detailed exploration of the RCIA process, which, as the book explains, is a restoration of early Christian practices. It meticulously walks you through the various periods and steps involved: from the initial Period of Evangelization and Pre-catechumenate, through the Rite of Acceptance, the Catechumenate itself, the Rite of Election, the Period of Purification and Enlightenment, the Celebration of the Sacraments of Initiation, and finally the Period of Mystagogy or Post-Baptismal Catechesis.
The book emphasizes that conversion isn’t an instant switch but a gradual journey. It also addresses the significance of key roles within the RCIA process, such as the catechumens (those seeking initiation) and their sponsors (those providing guidance and support). Furthermore, “Journey Through Time” doesn’t shy away from discussing the challenges the Church faces in areas like effectively tracking neophytes (new converts) after they’ve completed the RCIA program.
About the Author
This book is by Laurence F. Aucella, and he brings both academic rigor and personal experience to the subject. Aucella’s involvement with an RCIA group for four years, including attending weekly meetings, retreats, and Easter Vigil Masses, gives him a firsthand perspective that enriches the book.
Aucella’s expertise is further solidified by his doctorate in theological studies. This academic background allows him to provide in-depth analysis and historical context, making “Journey Through Time” a well-rounded and authoritative resource on the RCIA.
If you are ready to embark on a journey that is as much about self-discovery as it is about exploring a country, “Journey Through Time: The Catholic Church And Christian Initiation” is a must-read. The book invites you to understand the history, process, and impact of Christian initiation.
“Journey Through Time: The Catholic Church And Christian Initiation”
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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 […]