The Joy of Sacraments

In his 2017 speech on marriage and annulment, Pope Francis acknowledged that Catholics seeking marriage in the Church are missing the necessary faith formation and understanding of the sacrament itself.

His Holiness said, “This preparation is presented as a real opportunity for the evangelization of adults and, often, for those who have drifted away." The pope views sacramental preparation as an opportunity to draw Catholics who have fallen away back to the Church.

To reinvigorate the excitement for the faith of lukewarm Catholics, Liguori author Kathleen M. Basi prescribes modeling sacrament preparation after RCIA—preparation, celebration, and ongoing faith formation. Basi advocates cultivating a welcoming environment that draws families into the faith. She writes, “Why would a visitor want to return if they are made to feel unwelcome?”

In this Catholic Update article Basi provides straightforward, relatable recommendations to parishes and parishioners to help them cultivate an environment that exudes hospitality and vibrancy.