In pastorally sensitive language, this book builds the case for mission—for reaching out to seekers and inactive Catholics today. It explores issues of personal conversion and conversation in American society, particularly as evangelical Protestants have pressed the issue for Catholics. It lays out six reasons why mission is necessary today, and offers hints for how to bring a mission focus to parishioners. After presenting what younger generations bring to the table and their impact on church experience, the book lays out an agenda for parishes today.
Realistic, future-focused, and aware of how parishes work, Fr. DeSiano provides an outline for parish action and transformation. A concluding appendix sketches a New Testament spirituality for mission.
- Introduction (read the introduction in PDF)
- Chapter 1: Conversion of People
- Chapter 2: Conversion in American Society
- Chapter 3: The Reasons for Mission Chapter
- 4: American Religion and Catholic Parishes Chapter
- 5: Future Church in a Future World Chapter
- 6: An Agenda for Parishes Today
- Appendix: A New Testament Spirituality for Mission
