"Lead Us to the Water" Workshop ~ by Phyllis Booth and Joyce Coy

On Thursday, February 21, 2008, the Harcourt Religion Publishers presented a Liturgical Workshop called "Lead Us to the Water" at Our Lady of Lourdes Church. Approximately one hundred and ninety-eight parishioners from throughout the Diocese of Richmond attended. Nine members from St. Elizabeth's were present.

The first workshop presenter was Rita Ferrone. She emphasized or questioned "What Are We Learning?" concerning the Christian Initiation of Adults, commonly known as RCIA in most parishes. The U.S. Bishops in Journey to the Fullness of Life (2000) overwhelmingly affirmed that the RCIA "has the power to transform parishes when implemented as the rite is intended."

The format of the rite uses signs and symbols to introduce the Catechumens to the community. The sponsors and the community play a great role in making the catechumens feel a part of the church while learning about our faith. Ms Ferrone demonstrated a Welcoming Ceremony using the Cross and Hands to bless the newcomers at the door of the church. Sponsor, catechumens, community and priest are participants in this welcoming event.

The second question asked "What forms of blindness keep us from seeing what is good, true and holy?" Among the many answers were such words as self denial, our ego, our habit of judging and perfection. These forms of blindness may be a hindrance to accept a new way of doing and learning about our faith. What do we "see" when we are delivered from our blindness? When blindness is removed, we see God in others, our own faults, the beauty of people, the ability to accept people as they are and the warmth of a community. This workshop included participation of the audience and a Power Point presentation.

After lunch, Tom Kendzia and Monsignor Ray East conducted a musical workshop using the booklet "Lead Us to the Water" (each participant received a copy). Many of the songs were written by Tom Kendzia. They were easy to learn. A symbol used in a different way was the Baptism water. Using song and water, we didn't bless ourselves, but a stranger. Monsignor East used several scripture passages that blended with the songs we learned.

Both workshops were valuable tools to incorporate into the RCIA program and to give new life to those of us that expect the same thing each year when catechumens are presented.

The Harcourt Religion materials ranged from preschool to adults with videos, CD's, a new version of the Catholic Catechism, and posters and games. Also books to help parents and children to learn together about the sacraments.