Field Guide for Catechumens and Candidates

Becoming Catholic is a process of falling in love. The person with whom we are falling in love, over and over again, more and more deeply, is Jesus Christ. To become Catholic, one must open their heart to the love Jesus has for them and return that love as best they can. This is the starting point of The Heart of Faith, where catechumens and candidates quickly learn that Jesus Christ will be their focus throughout their journey through the catechumenate.

They will learn what they need to do to become Catholic as they discern, pray, worship, break open the Word, and try to live their daily lives as followers of Christ. In particular, they will learn what living the way of Christ looks like, which the author says involves four things: a conversion of mind and heart; an understanding of what the Church teaches; a loving heart; and a true desire to be baptized (or received into the Church).

The author guides catechumens and candidates through the entire process of preparing for baptism, the Rite of Election, the Scrutinies, keeping Lent, celebrating the Triduum, baptism (or acceptance) at the Easter Vigil, and life after baptism. This warm and wonderful companion for parish catechumens and candidates is a resource they will value and treasure long after they become Catholics.

Throughout their journey, catechumens and candidates will learn that Jesus Christ is the focus, and they must open their hearts to the love He has for them and return that love as best they can. As they discern, pray, worship, and live their daily lives as followers of Christ, they will come to understand what it means to live the way of Christ, which involves a conversion of mind and heart, an understanding of Church teachings, a loving heart, and a true desire to be baptized or received into the Church.

The author provides a comprehensive guide to the entire process, from preparation for baptism to life after becoming a Catholic. This companion is a valuable resource that catechumens and candidates will cherish long after they have completed their journey and become part of the Catholic community.

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