©2020 Victor R. Claveau, MJ
Answering questions about your religion is an excellent method of deepening the interest of inquirers and thus of encouraging them to enter an RCIA program. So too is the technique of explaining the teachings of Catholicism whenever the opportunity presents itself. Even though no question is explicitly asked, you can at times sense a person’s interest and venture a few words of explanation. That brief explanation will often kindle interest in other teachings of the Catholic religion and lead the person to a thorough study of the Faith.
Potential converts are about us on all sides if we answer their questions and thus meet them halfway. We must show that we really like them and want to share with them the precious treasure of our holy Faith because of the truth and happiness it will bring them.
Scripture reminds us to,” Always be ready to give an explanation to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope, but do it with gentleness and reverence, keeping your conscience clear, so that, when you are maligned, those who defame your good conduct in Christ may themselves be put to shame” (1 Pet. 3:15-16).
Ideally, each and every Catholic would be steeped in the knowledge necessary to answer any question, but, realistically, that is not the case.
A little knowledge can and will go a long way, but, if you sincerely want to evangelize, friends, co-works, family, or strangers, you will need to begin a systematic study of the Faith and the art of apologetics. The more you learn, the more confidants you will become. The Holy Spirit will bring individuals to you for instruction.
Occasionally, Catholics are reluctant to identify themselves as Catholics because they are afraid that they might be embarrassed by not being able to answer a question. The easiest way to handle such a situation, is to simply say that you are not a theologian and that you will research the question and get back to them with an accurate answer. Then do so!
“A good way to learn is to listen, a better way to learn is to read, but the best way to learn is to teach. –St. Francis de Sales