Five functions of the ministry of the word are inquiry (my
term), initiation, ongoing formation, liturgy, and theology.
Good things to remember. I think a healthy parish should have
all five, even the last of them. 51. The following are the
principal functions of the ministry of the word: – Called
together and called to faith This function is the most immediate
expression of the missionary mandate of Jesus. It is realized
through “the primary proclamation”, directed to non-believers;
those who have chosen unbelief, those Christians who live on the
margins of Christian life, those who follow other religions.
(Evangelii Nuntiandi 51-53) The religious awakening of the
children of Christian families, is also an eminent form of this
function. Most American parishes are decent enough with children
and awkward with Christians on the “margins.” Those who are
moved by grace to decide to follow Jesus are “introduced into
the life of faith, of the liturgy and of the charity of the
People of God”. (Ad Gentes 14) The Chur