Concordia Seminary’s Dean of Theological Research and Publication Dr. Kevin Golden interviews Dr. Kent Burreson, Professor of Systematic Theology, about his co-authored book, “Journey to Jesus: Faith Formation into Christ and Community,” which examines the catechumenate process and development in Lutheran congregations. The book, co-authored with Dr. Rhoda Schuler, explores how adults are brought into the faith through a longer, formative process rather than typical 8–10-week adult instruction classes. The research involved four congregations: two in New York, one in Georgia, and one in Illinois. Burreson observes that the catechumenate program fosters high retention rates (90%+) and a strong sense of community and mission among participants: “All the congregations manifest… how [the catechumenate] develops this kind of missional mindset, missional attitude within the congregation, and there’s no question it does, because they’re always inviting their friends. They’re aware of the fact that they need to invite their friends, and they try to create conversations or opportunities for conversations in which they can invite people.”
The book is available through Whip and Stock Publishers and Amazon.