Discerning Disciples: Listening For God's Voice In Christian Initiation

The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults requires several steps of discernment as those contemplating this major step attempt to discover which direction to take. Beneath the public ritual of turning to God, candidates wrestle with personal questions, asking themselves: Is God truly calling me? How can I be sure? Am I called to join this community? Which past behaviors have given me life and which were destructive? How can I let go and be open to God's love?This invaluable resource for initiation ministers who journey with RCIA catechumens and candidates has been revised and includes new chapters on discernment with baptized candidates, children, and among initiation team members. It describes the discernment process and how people experience it. The book serves to improve the listening skills of guides and helps them ask appropriate questions at the right time. The appendix contains specific suggestions for interviews during the four stages of the catechumenate and offers a format for a discernment day before the Rite of Election.Donna Steffen, SC, is an educator and spiritual director in Cincinnati and a member of the North American Forum on the Catechumenate. She has been a director and consultant for Christian initiation on a parish, diocesan, and national level. Published by Liturgy Training Publications.