Fourth Period: Mystagogy (Post-Baptismal Catechesis)

The Easter Vigil does not mark the end of the RCIA process, but the beginning of a commitment to a lifelong discovery and living out of the Catholic Christian tradition. The fifty days from Easter to Pentecost are called the Period of Mystagogy, a Greek word meaning "entering into the mysteries". In the early Church, this time was used to explain the mysteries of the sacraments. Today, this period serves as a time for today's neophytes (newly converted) to:

• Continue to gather, pray, and nourish their faith
• Deepen their experiential understanding of God's word and the sacraments
• Centre more on the apostolic or social justice aspects of Catholic Christianity
• Claim a new role of service in the community. All Catholics are invited to active participation in parish life, which includes worship, stewardship, and fellowship.¹
  
  

¹ Postbaptismal Catechesis (Mystagogy), Journey of Faith, The Leaders Guide, Liguori Publications 2016, p. 7.

Becoming Catholic