Mystagogy Liturgy & Sacraments I

  1. Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, & Eucharist

From these pivotal moments of grace, the soul was saved from meaninglessness, sin, skepticism, and the deepest of chaos which could only be self-referential. Through a pure gift of God’s goodness, He gives man meaning as well as salvation. Jesus is the Incarnation of the Trinitarian Life. As both God and Man, He alone shows to each soul their unique dignity.

  1. Mystagogy = This word from the Greek mystes, meaning “one who has been initiated” and agogus meaning “leader” refers to liturgical catechesis intended to initiate a catechumen into the mystery of Christ. In a more specific sense, mystagogy is the period of catechesis that immediately follows an adult’s reception of Baptism CCC #1075[1]

III. Importance- Result of all catechesis or mystagogy is understanding the mystery of Jesus Christ. It is not a matter of head knowledge, though important, rather, it is the living of an authentic Christian life. The Sacraments are essential to this walk because of Christ. Sara & I refer back to the prior shows on Baptism, Confirmation, & Eucharist for the both the Scriptural, cultural, and the apostolic and patristic father’s words. Some of this information might be presented in both the preparation of the Catechumens , and the Period of the Post-Baptismal Catechesis.

Follow the Science, as though Science is material, as opposed to interior knowledge. More of a becoming a transformation than learning.

As a newly initiated Catholic, they continue their formation and education continue in the Period of the Post-Baptismal Catechesis, which is also called Mystagogy. This period continues at least until Pentecost. During the period the newly baptized members reflect on their experiences at the Easter Vigil and continue to learn more about the Scriptures, the Sacraments, and the teachings of the Catholic Church. In addition, they reflect on how they will serve Christ and help in the Church’s mission and outreach activities.[2]

Most are not converts, most have experience coming in. Society of graduations, marking an end point. Unfamiliar how to help them into Church.

[1] John T. Ford, CSC Glossary of Theological Terms (St. Mary’s Press: Winona, MN 2006) 126

[2] https://www.usccb.org/beliefs-and-teachings/who-we-teach/christian-initiation-of-adults   accessed May 4, 2022