Chapter I Order of the Catechumenate Arranged in Steps Period of Evangelization and Precatechumenate 36. Although the Order of Initiation begins with admission into the catechumenate, the period that precedes it, the “precatechumenate,” is of great importance and should not normally be omitted. For within it takes place that evangelization in which the living God is confidently and constantly proclaimed, together with the one whom he sent for the salvation of all, Jesus Christ, so that, as the Holy Spirit opens their hearts, non-Christians may be freely converted to the Lord as believers and sincerely hold fast to him who, since he is the way, the truth, and the life, fulfills all their spiritual expectations, and indeed infinitely surpasses them.1 37. From evangelization, carried out with God’s help, arise faith and initial conversion, by which each person feels called away from sin and into the profound mystery of divine love. The entire Period of the Precatechumenate is devoted to this evangelization, so that the will to follow Christ and to seek Baptism may mature. 38. Therefore, in this period a suitable explanation of the Gospel should be given to the inquirers by Priests, Deacons or catechists and other lay people; careful help should be offered to them so that they may cooperate with divine grace with a purified and clearer intention, and that the group of inquirers may then more easily meet with Christian families and groups. 1 Cf. Second Vatican Council, Decree on the Missionary Activity of the Church, Ad gentes, no. 13. 9 10 11
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