Reflection That Actually Works
Self-reflection can feel vague sometimes. You sit down, try to ask yourself the right questions, but either get stuck or end up journaling about random stuff. That’s why structured assessments are so helpful—they give clarity, focus, and direction. Funny enough, the survey section in Journey Through Time does exactly that.
Dr. Aucella’s research questions weren’t just for data. They were crafted to measure real spiritual growth—commitment, formation, participation, and transformation. With a little tweaking, they double perfectly as a personal discipleship check-in or small group reflection tool.
How to Build Your Own Faith Check-In
Start by reframing the survey questions from Chapter IV into personal prompts. For example, instead of “How frequently did participants attend RCIA events?”, ask yourself, “Am I showing up regularly for my own spiritual growth?” Boom—instant accountability.
Next, move to questions about learning and growth. The survey checks whether participants understood core Church teachings. Flip it: “How confident am I in explaining my faith to someone else?” or “Where do I still feel unsure?” That becomes a roadmap for what to focus on next.
Then hit the big stuff—belonging and transformation. Ask: “Am I feeling more connected to my faith community?” or “What’s one concrete way my faith has changed how I live?” Suddenly, the survey turns into a full-blown discipleship assessment that’s simple, effective, and honest.
The Author Behind the Right Questions
Dr. Laurence F. Aucella isn’t just an academic—he’s someone who knows formation happens step by step. His background in counseling and ministry is why his survey questions go deeper than just numbers. They’re about whether faith is really shaping lives.
That’s why adapting his questions into a spiritual check-in feels so natural. His heart is the same as anyone reading the book or walking the RCIA journey—to make sure faith isn’t just information, but transformation. Whether you’re leading a group or sitting alone with a journal, his work guides you toward growth that sticks.
Journey Through Time
The Catholic Church and Christian Initiation
Dr. Laurence F. Aucella
Check your growth, reflect with purpose, and turn questions into real steps toward deeper faith.