Episode 114: From the Archives: Are We Sacramentalized but not Evangelized?

Sherry Weddell, in her great book Forming Intentional Disciples, suggests that we have raised Catholics who are “sacramentalized, but not evangelized.” Wow! Powerful statement!

In this archived episode, Chris and John begin the first episode of a series looking at sacramental preparation programs and how we can evangelize as well as sacramentalize. At the center of this conversation is this idea that Weddell shares:

“If our pastoral practice is to be life-changing, then we must be acutely aware that the reception of a valid sacrament and the fruitful reception of sacramental grace are two different but related issues. Validity means that the sacrament was truly bestowed and the intended grace made truly present to the person receiving the sacrament. But validity does not guarantee that the grace made available has been actively received and is bearing fruit in that person’s life.” –pg. 99

Episode 38: Rebuilding the Sacrament of Confirmation (Part 2)

Confirmation is such an awesome sacrament that we needed 2 episodes to cover it all!

In this 6th and final episode in our series on sacramental preparation, John and Chris go into even more detail as to how we might rebuild Confirmation preparation, including talking about retreats, small groups, and more.

Episode 36: Envisioning A First Communion Preparation That Evangelizes

At long last, those preparing for First Communion are welcome to the table with all the faithful to be rejuvenated by the Body and Blood of Christ in the form of bread and wine. One of 3 sacraments that can be repeated, are we preparing young people for a lifetime of receiving this sacrament on a regular basis?

In this fourth episode in our series on sacramental preparation, Chris and John discover some best practices in developing a Communion preparation that truly evangelizes.  

Episode 35: A Fresh Look at Marriage Preparation

There is no greater event more life-changing in the life of a couple than their wedding day. A start to a new adventure of life together with a new partner. A moment so life changing should require intentional efforts by the Church.

In this third episode in our series on sacramental preparation, John and Chris discuss how we might reconsider our marriage preparation so as to truly prepare couples for the lifetime of marriage that is upon them.

Episode 34: Re-imagining Baptism Preparation in the Parish

The baptism of a child is an opportunity to engage an entire family in the life of the parish. Having a baby is a major milestone and tremendous life-changing experience in which the Church can be intentional about partnering with parents in raising up their child in the life of faith.

But are we blowing the opportunity?

In this second episode in a series on sacramental preparation, John and Chris explore effective strategies for preparing parents to take on this new role as the spiritual leader of their children.

Episode 33: Are We Sacramentalized but not Evangelized?

Episode 33: Are We Sacramentalized but not Evangelized?

Sherry Weddell, in her great book Forming Intentional Disciples, suggests that we have raised Catholics who are “sacramentalized, but not evangelized.” Wow! Powerful statement!

In this episode, Chris and John begin the first episode of a series looking at sacramental preparation programs and how we can evangelize as well as sacramentalize. At the center of this conversation is this idea that Weddell shares:

“If our pastoral practice is to be life changing, then we must be acutely aware that the reception of a valid sacrament and the fruitful reception of sacramental grace are two different but related issues. Validity means that the sacrament was truly bestowed and the intended grace made truly present to the person receiving the sacrament. But validity does not guarantee that the grace made available has been actively received and is bearing fruit in that person’s life.” –pg. 99