A weeklong program at The Catholic University of America is teaching the skills of delivering an effective sermon. The article discusses the 'Preaching Boot Camp' and its focus on improving homilies. The article also covers the Beach Mass on Long Island and its connection to the Eucharistic Revival. The Register Radio program features interviews with Zelda Caldwell and Alyssa Murphy.
5 months ago
A new weeklong "Preaching Boot Camp" program at The Catholic University of America (CUA) aims to address frequent parishioner complaints regarding the quality, content, and length of Sunday homilies 1. This initiative seeks to teach priests the "lost art" of delivering effective sermons, helping them to better connect with their audiences 1. Zelda Caldwell, a Register Senior Writer, discussed this program, highlighting its focus on enhancing the impact of preaching 1.
For over eleven years, Catholics have been gathering for "Beach Masses" on Long Island, an outdoor worship experience that draws hundreds of attendees 1. These Masses connect the faithful with the Blessed Sacrament in a unique setting, reminiscent of Jesus calling his first disciples by the seashore 1. Alyssa Murphy, the Register's Managing Editor of Digital Assets, noted the program's strong connection to the ongoing Eucharistic Revival, emphasizing how it helps deepen spiritual engagement 1.
Both the Preaching Boot Camp and the Beach Masses represent efforts within the Catholic Church to enhance the spiritual experience and engagement of the faithful 1. The boot camp directly addresses a common concern about the effectiveness of homilies, aiming to make Sunday services more impactful for parishioners 1. Similarly, the Beach Masses offer an accessible and unique environment for worship, drawing people to the Eucharist and fostering a sense of community outside traditional church buildings 1.
How does the Church evangelize and celebrate the Eucharist?
The Church evangelizes by proclaiming the Gospel and transforming humanity from within through its influence, and celebrates the Eucharist as the perpetual sacrifice of Christ, making present his Body and Blood under the appearances of bread and wine , .
Evangelization is the Church's mission to bring the Good News of Jesus Christ to all humanity, aiming to transform individuals and cultures from within . It is a fundamental aspect of the Church's identity and vocation .
Key aspects of evangelization include:
The Eucharist is central to the Church's life and mission, perpetuating the sacrifice of the Cross and making Christ truly present , .
The celebration of the Eucharist corresponds to the words and actions of Christ at the Last Supper , :
The Eucharist is considered the "source and summit" of Christian life, a sacred meal, a sacrament of love, a sign of unity, and a bond of charity, offering the promise of eternal life . It deepens communion with the saints and unites believers in Christ .