Givenness, Saturation, and the Self: A Phenomenology of Christian Initiation

Phenomenology holds great promise yet underdeveloped potential for ritual studies and liturgical theology. As phenomenology has indeed taken a “theological turn” the contentiousness of such an approach abates, questions remain as to what insights, concepts, language can offer deepen our understanding Christian practices. Specifically with respect rituals initiation, does open new avenues appreciation sacrament baptism, enrich faithful’s experience these rituals? This article considers insights afforded by phenomenological sacrament, in particular regard adult baptism catechumenate Rite Initiation Adults (RCIA), rite reception sacramental initiation into Roman Catholic Church. Considered through lenses, promises understanding, theological appreciation, depth prayer. Drawing primarily from work Jean-Luc Marion, this also prominent critiques his articulate givenness reception, identity formation within ecclesial community, prayerful preparation neophytes.