Five principles for mystagogical preaching and catechesis

In the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, only two pages of texts are given to describe the period of mystagogy and post-baptismal catechesis. Below are the five main things you need to know about mystagogy during this period of the initiation process (from RCIA 244-247):

• Mystagogy and mystagogical preaching leads the neophytes and the community to a deepened grasp of the paschal mystery and helps them make it part of their lives through


• meditation on the Gospel
• sharing in eucharist, and
• doing works of charity.


• Mystagogy and mystagogical preaching introduces the neophytes into a fuller and more effective understanding of the mysteries through the Gospel and the sacraments.


• The main setting for mystagogy is the Sunday Mass.


• At Masses during the Easter season where neophytes are present, it is recommended to use the readings for Year A.


• Mystagogy and mystagogical preaching renews the inspiration and outlook of the faithful and brings them closer to the neophytes.