Evangelization and Discipleship

Evangelization: The Invitation

Evangelization is the initial proclamation of the Gospel (Kerygma) intended to arouse faith. It is the process of sharing the “Good News” of Jesus Christ’s life, death, and resurrection.

As you noted, it begins with a personal encounter. It isn’t just about transmitting information or doctrine; it is about introducing one person to another — the human person to the Divine Person.

  • The Goal: To lead someone to a point of conversion where they consciously decide to follow Jesus.

  • The Nature: Outward-facing, seeking, and inviting.

Discipleship: The Journey

Discipleship is the ongoing, lifelong process of growth that follows the initial encounter. If evangelization is “making” a disciple, discipleship is “being” a disciple. It involves the intention decision to live according to the teachings of Jesus and to imitate His character.

  • The Goal: Maturity in faith, transformation of the heart, and equipping the believer to eventually evangelize others.

  • The Nature: Inward-deepening, disciplined, and communal.

The Intrinsic Connection

The relationship between the two is cyclical rather than linear. You cannot have true discipleship without an initial evangelization, and evangelization that doesn’t lead to discipleship is incomplete.

As you noted, it begins with a personal encounter. It isn’t just about transmitting information or doctrine; it is about introducing one person to another — the human person to the Divine Person.

  • The Goal: To lead someone to a point of conversion where they consciously decide to follow Jesus.

  • The Nature: Outward-facing, seeking, and inviting.

FEATURE  |  EVANGELIZATION  | DISCIPLESHIP
FOCUS  |  The “First Call”  |  The “Daily Walk”
ACTION  |  Proclaiming & Inviting | Teaching & Following
KEY ELEMENT  |  The Encounter  |  The Relationship
RESULT  |  Conversion  |   Sanctification

Evangelization and Discipleship

  • Adults:

    Forming Intentional Disciples

    • The Ananias Training

    • Called and Gifted Workshop

    • Small Christian Community Support

    Click for: Adult Faith Formation

  • Young Adults:

    • Safe space to share faith.

    • Opportunities for social gatherings.

    • Invitation to participate in disciple formation.

    Click for: Young Adults Ministry

  • OCIA:

    At St. Paul, we are dedicated to assisting everyone who wishes to become Catholic. Our approach is year-round, allowing us to work with all individuals effectively. We implement the following strategies:

    • Adult Learning Methodology

    • Comprehensive Curriculum

    • Small Group Interactions

    • Experienced Catechists

    • We aim to create a supportive environment for all on their journey to Catholicism.

    Email FaithFormation@StPaulLeesburg.org to join.

    Click to email

  • Children:

    We offer a comprehensive 30-week curriculum for lifelong formation. We will meet on Wednesdays with classes from Kindergarten to 8th Grade.

    • Loyola Press Curriculum

    • Adorations and Prayers in the Church

    • Well-trained Catechists

    • Activities

    Click for: Youth Formation

  • Sacramental Preparation:

    Along with Faith Formation, Sacramental Preparation for First Communion and Confirmation will take place over four Saturdays. This program included a parents’ reflection, and students will attend specific classes related to the Sacraments.

    Key details include:

    • Parents will receive the same information as their children.

    • A light breakfast will be provided.

    • Homework and handout materials will be distributed to support ongoing formation.

    • First Reconciliation will involve parents.

    • Practices will be held for both First Communion and Confirmation.

    • Confirmation students must adhere to the calendar deadlines, which include completing service hours, obtaining sponsor and Saint information, submitting a letter to the Pastor, and participating in an interview.

    • A Confirmation Retreat will also be included.

    Email FaithFormation@StPaulLeesburg.org for questions.

    Click to Register

  • Oratory:

    Inspired by St. John Bosco’s idea of the Oratory, we are pleased to offer this to all middle and high school students at St. Paul. The pillars are:

    • A Home: A place that welcomes and provides a family spirit. Relax and snacks

    • A school: A place that prepares youth for life and Honest work. Do your homework

    • A parish: A place that evangelizes and offers a connection with God. Prayers and spiritual life

    • A Playground: A place where friends meet and live in cheerfulness. Play games and sports

    Email FaithFormation@StPaulLeesburg.org for questions.

    Click Here to register

  • Middle School

    All middle schools are welcome to our Faith Formation program

    • Lifelong Faith Formation for grades 6, 7, and 8

    • Adoration night

    • Appropriated Catechesis

    • Movie night

    • Services hours

    • Boys Retreat

    • Girls Retreat

    • Hidden Lake Life Teen Summer Camp

    Email FaithFormation@StPaulLeesburg.org for questions.

    Click Here to register

  • High School

    • Safety place to share Faith

    • Social gathering

    • Movie night

    • Adoration night

    • Spiritual topics according to the needs

    • Services Hours

    • Antioch Retreat

    • CoveCrest Life Teen summer Camp

    Email FaithFormation@StPaulLeesburg.org for questions.

    Click Here to register

  • VBS

    • From kindergarten to 8th grade

    • Daily activities include music, prayer, crafting, and much fun

    • Daily snack and lunch

    • Afternoon program with St. Paul School

    • Complementary t-shirt

    Email VBS@StPaulLeesburg.org for questions.

    Click Here to register