Introduction to the Sacraments of InitiationCourse Level: Intermediate

According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, “Christian initiation is accomplished by three sacraments together: Baptism which is the beginning of new life; Confirmation which is the strengthening [of our faith]; and Eucharist which nourishes [us as] disciples with Christ’s Body and Blood for…transformation in Christ.” (CCC 1275). In the process of taking this course, participants will take a dedicated look at the three Sacraments of Initiation, their roots in our faith tradition, and how they individually inspire, and collectively guide our discipleship, while fostering Christ’s mission in others, and within our communities of faith.

Successful completion of this course earns 2.5 CEU's. Click here for more information about CEU's.

• Deepen knowledge of the theological rationale and nature of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist
• Reflect on the Sacraments of Initiation as embodiments of Jesus’s life, through Scripture
• Apply the Characters of Catechumenate to each of the Sacraments of Initiation
• Connect personal experiences of these Sacraments with one’s own missionary discipleship
• Identify practical ways to promote the Sacraments of Initiation into the life of our faith communities more fully, through pastoral ministry.

• Required Book: Kathleen Hughes, Liturgy Training Publications, June 9, 2007 Saying Amen: A Mystagogy of Sacrament ISBN: 1568542399; ISBN-13: 978-1568542393
  • Order Here
    
• Required Book: United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, DC. July, 2020. Directory for Catechesis: New Edition ISBN: 1601376693; ISBN-13: 978-1601376695; ASIN:‎ B08FCT5TLJ
  • Order Here
    

• Week 1: Baptism: Gateway to Life in the Spirit
  • Increase foundational knowledge of the theological rationale for Baptism in the Catholic tradition
• Week 2: Confirmation: The Grace that Binds us to Christ and Holy Spirit
  • Connect the effects of the Sacrament of Confirmation with their implications for growing discipleship and witnessing to the faith
• Week 3: Eucharist: Source and Summit of Christian Life
  • Articulate the concept of ‘Eucharist’ as an act of Thanksgiving that connects us as members of the Body of Christ
• Week 4: Fruits of the Sacraments
  • Articulate connections between the celebration of Sacraments and steps toward greater Synodality in the Church
• Week 5: As we worship, so we believe, so we live (Lex Orandi, Lex Credendi, Lex Vivendi)
  • Articulate practical ways to facilitate the sacramental encounter of God within Initiation processes in participant’s ministerial setting