Strengthening Sacramental Preparation: Lay Leaders Professional Development Day

‍Agenda:

8:45 A.M. | Check-In

9:00 A.M. | Welcome and Opening Prayer

9:15 A.M. | Session I: “Sacramental Prep in a Catechumenal Mode (Style?)” with Dr. Sean Innerst

10:00 A.M | Break

10:15 A.M | Session II: “Integrating the Family in Sacramental Preparation” with Dr. Arielle Harms

11 A.M. | Q&A

12:00 P.M | Holy Mass (for in-person participants)

12:30 P.M | Lunch (for in-person participants)

1:45 P.M | Optional Tour of Campus (for in-person participants)

‍

Talk Descriptions:

“Sacramental Prep in a Catechumenal Mode (Style?)” Dr. Sean Innerst

“The Church has proposed that the catechumenate, what we now call the OCIA process, is to be the model for all catechesis. What does it mean to do sacramental preparation – at whatever stage – in a catechumenal style? This talk will explore the structure and dynamism of the OCIA to find inspirations for a vital approach to preparation for the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and First Holy Communion.”

“Integrating the Family in Sacramental Preparation” Dr. Arielle Harms

While the catechetical documents point out that parents are the primary catechists of their children, most parents are content to abrogate their responsibility, and catechetical programs are designed to accommodate. This talk will examine what the Church means when she says that parents are the primary catechists, and explore ways sacramental programs can assist parents in fulfilling this role.

‍

Who Should Attend:

This event is intended for lay leaders serving the Church in a full-time, part-time or volunteer capacity. Clergy and religious are also welcome.

Attend in-person on our campus in St. Louis or virtually through our live stream.