Dictionary
A modern dictionary of Catholic terms, both common and obscure. Find accurate definitions of words and phrases.
INITIATION OF ADULTS
Preparation of adults especially in mission countries for baptism and reception into the Church. According to the directives of the Congregation for Divine Worship (1972), the process is done in four stages: 1. initial period of inquiry, instruction, and evangelization; 2. catechumenate as a period of progressive formation in the faith, which includes being signed with the cross, blessings, exorcisms, and introduction into the Church for celebration of the Word of God; 3. immediate preparation from the beginning of Lent to Easter Vigil, when the sacraments of initiation are received, i.e., baptism, confirmation, and the Eucharist; 4. full entrance into the community of the faithful during the Easter season.
All items in this dictionary are from Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.
