The revised 2001 Evangelization Handbook for Parishes is now available. This handbook presents a step-by-step approach for parishes to organize an Evangelization Committee and tackle the primary goals of evangelization. Committee leaders, parish staff and individuals will find this handbook easy to read as it is "Catholic consciousness" and teaches readers how to promote the messages of the Catholic Church. Filled with substantive text and articles written by Archbishop Rembert Weakland, the handbook provides sample programs, techniques and support tactics to invite parishioners and all other interested individuals to be a part of a greater Catholic community.

The Evangelization Handbook is divided into two main sections. Part I is dedicated to laying the groundwork for evangelization and focuses on the planning stages. Chapter one begins with tackling the definition of evangelization to help familiarize the reader with the fundamental vision of evangelization, and it explains why Catholics need to evangelize. Briefly, it gives an overview of the topics that will be more fully explored throughout the handbook. The second chapter initiates the actual planning stage. Most importantly, it identifies the need to form a committee to spearhead evangelization programs and assess community needs. Chapter two explains how to build the foundation necessary to establish a committee and discusses how to uncover the specific evangelization needs of the parish.

Part II describes "how to" evangelize. First, it identifies the three major goals of evangelization as determined by the U.S. Bishops in Go and Make Disciples (1993). Then it presents plans for parishes to reach those goals. Each chapter in Part II is dedicated to an individual goal and uncovers effective methods to accomplish the goal. The chapters discuss fine points specific to each targeted group, possible pitfalls, and a thorough approach to begin evangelizing on different levels.

Sample letters, evaluation forms and worksheets are found in the appendices of the handbook. A miniature copy of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee Chart of Evangelizing Assets is also included, which summarizes how committees and staff can use parish assets and talents to evangelize effectively. A color 22" x 36" laminated Chart of Evangelizing Assets is also available for purchase. It wonderfully complements the revised 2001 Evangelization Handbook for Parishes. Used together, these tools will provide each and every parish with the background, organization and guidance to spread God's Good News.

To purchase the revised 2001 Evangelization Handbook for Parishes and/or Chart of Evangelizing Assets, contact Janet Shea in the Adult and Family Ministry Office at 414-769-3448 or 800-769-9373 x448 (within the ten counties of the archdiocese), or email sheaj@archmil.org. You may also access the order form from our website (http://www.archmil.org) under Departments - Adult & Family Ministry - Evangelization Handbook. The handbook can be purchased at a cost of $15, and the chart is available for an additional $10. Both materials will be available from the Adult and Family Ministry Office during the Parish Leadership Conference on October 20, 2001.