Book excerpt: A Guide to the Period of Evangelization and Precatechumenate explores the distinctive vision and purpose of this foundational period of the initiation process. It provides initiation ministers with the practical tools needed to assess the parish’s current evangelizing ministry and to design an inquiry process aimed at helping seekers to hear and respond to the Good News, to undergo conversion, and to awaken and the desire to enter a relationship with God in Christ. Inside this guide, initiation ministers will find everything needed for effective ministry in this period, including: An overview of the purpose and vision of the Period of Evangelization and Precatechumenate Practical tips for improving the evangelizing outreach of your parish Ideas for attracting inquirers An outline for an initial conversation with prospective inquirers Questions for reflection with the initiation team and with inquirers Sample inquiry sessions based on paragraph 42 of the OCIA Discernment questions for assessing an inquirer’s readiness to celebrate the Rite for Entrance into the Catechumenate Guidance for preparing and celebrating the Rite for Entrance into the Catechumenate A mystagogical session to help catechumens reflect on the Rite for Entrance into the Catechumenate and its meaning at this moment in their journey