The New Evangelization

The word kerygma is a term unfamiliar to most Catholics and yet it is the very starting point of faith in Jesus Christ. 

Kerygma refers to the initial and essential proclamation of the Gospel message which is an introduction and invitation to enter into a personal life-changing, life-giving relationship with Jesus Christ Himself. It opens the way to conversion and immersion into the life and mission of the Church.

But what is the content of the kerygma?  What are its elements?  What does it entail?

In this presentation you will gain a deeper understanding of why the kerygma is profoundly connected to and essential to a full, abundant and dynamic life of Faith! “

For many Catholics the topic of evangelization can be intimidating and challenging.  It can seem vague or thought to be the exclusive work of priests and religious or others specially trained or gifted to do so.

Many do not realize that the Good News of the Gospel of Jesus Christ is the answer to the deepest longings of every human heart.  And in a world that is broken, bruised and battered, now as never before, each member of the Church is needed for this essential mission of the Church. 

In this presentation we’ll look to what many have called ‘the magna carta’ of Catholic evangelization: “Evangelization in the Modern World” by Pope Pius VI.  In this short yet rich document you will discover exactly what Catholic evangelization is while gaining clear understanding on the content of its message.

We are called to be a ‘light to the world’ and ‘salt of the earth’ and people do take notice.            

Perhaps you’ve been asked, “You seem so joyful, calm (content, e.g.) – what is your secret?”  In one instance a friend was asked by a co-worker: “Are you on drugs? You seem so happy all the time!” (It was the Holy Spirit.)

In Scripture, St. Peter tells us: “Should anyone ask you the reason for that hope that is in you, be ever ready to respond, but humbly and reverently.” (I Ptr 3:15) 

That ‘response’ is called a personal testimony.  A personal testimony is simply the Good News presented in terms of your own practical, lived experience. It is a brief personal story (3 min) sharing where your life and God’s action have intersected.

In this presentation you learn:

• Why a personal testimony is an irreplaceable tool for evangelization
• What to include and not include in your story
• How to equip and mobilize others with their testimony

Using an easy step-by-step approach, you’ll have your story ready to go!

When you hear the word evangelization what images come to mind?  Street preachers? Door knockers?  Televangelists? Trained professionals? Popular speakers?

Well, here’s a thought… have you ever thought that you could evangelize in your ordinary, day-to-day life?  Does that sound intriguing or do you feel slightly uncomfortable?  Either way, no worries!

Everyday evangelization is easier than you think!  You don’t have to ‘be’ any of those things mentioned above.  All you have to be is you.

And the truth is that all around us are people who are in desperate need for God’s love.  And you can be the vessel God uses in a way that is low key, comfortable yet influential.  “How in the world am I supposed to do that?” you may be asking?

Great question! That’s what this presentation is all about.  Whether this is completely new to you (100 level) or if you have some experience already (200+ level), you will leave better equipped and more confident in everyday evangelization.  Yes, you can do it!