EADM HAWAII
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CENACLE FORMATION
A. CENACLE FORMAT
EADM cenacles all over the world follow a suggested format and guideline for the study and prayer program which were reviewed and approved by the Marian Fathers. This section on “Cenacle Formation” explains the various roles cenacle members can have, suggested format for the weekly (or periodic) meetings, and the materials used to enhance the members’ spiritual formation.
What would the cenacle meetings look like?
The suggested format is as follows:
10 min - Songs, Prayers of Gratitude
20 min - Divine Mercy and Eucharistic Study based on Scriptures, Catechism of the Catholic Church, Diary of St. Faustina and writings of other Saints
10 min - Discussions and Sharing
10 min - Prayers of Petition
10 min - Chaplet of the Divine Mercy
Once a month potluck-dinner fellowship discussing Works of Mercy projects.It is appropriate to begin the meetings with songs praising God and prayers of gratitude and thanksgiving. These prayers will help the cenacle members to become Eucharistic people since the word Eucharist means thanksgiving. The members study about the Divine Mercy and the Eucharistic Heart of Our Lord Jesus by using the guidelines established in the cenacle formation books. These books have materials for up to 4 years of meetings. The members will have discussions and sharing followed by prayers of petition and then close with the Divine Mercy chaplet. It has been emphasized by Dr. Thatcher that from his experience, groups that follow the format in the guidelines seem to do much better than those who don’t. Members are encouraged to continue their commitments to other devotional groups such as Rosary prayer groups. The cenacle hour will be devoted to studying about the Eucharist and the Mercy of Our Lord Jesus.
The cenacle members should read Sacred Scripture, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and the Diary entries noted, and come to each gathering prepared to discuss and share thoughts on the readings. Each should try to internalize a line or two from the above and apply it to one’s life situation. As one reads the Diary of Saint Faustina, one becomes aware that it is consonant with Sacred Scripture. At the completion of the 2-year cenacle formation period, the major topics regarding the devotional aspect of the Divine Mercy Message, the virtues of Saint Faustina, as well as key tenets of the Catholic Faith, will have been covered in discussions. The lessons require some preparation. But, as members deepen their knowledge of the Divine Mercy Message by these means, they will be able to apply the teachings to their personal lives, and experience the healing of personal wounds and relationships.
B. CENACLE MATERIALS
The following materials are needed for the successful study and discussions during the cenacle meetings:- Holy Bible
- Catechism of the Catholic Church
- Diary of St. Faustina – “Divine Mercy in My Soul”
- Cenacle Formation Manual and Prayer Book (Volumes 1 – 3)
- Encyclical Letter of Pope John Paul II (Dives in Misericordia) “The Mercy of God”.
- Other supporting materials such as books on the lives of saints and other related news and articles concerning the Catholic Faith.
The Cenacle Formation Manuals provide the topic for each session and all the cenacle has to do is follow the manuals. Moreover, with each topic for study and discussion, the manuals also provide the Scripture verses, Diary entries as well as Catechism of the Catholic Church entries supporting the topics and discussion. These supporting materials were formulated by Divine Mercy lay experts and reviewed by the Marian Fathers. In addition, special articles on selected subjects can be found on the cenacle formation manuals. It is important that members read the specified verses or pages in order to properly prepare for that week’s study and discussion. Also included are suggested questions or statements that invite spiritual dialogue and discussion among members. It is important to stay on the subject being discussed.
C. CENACLE MEMBERS
Cenacle Member Roles- Members
- Lay Facilitator
- Spiritual Director or Mentor
- Suffering-Soul Members
1. Members
It is important for the vitality of the cenacle that each member pursue and maintain a sacramental life. In addition, a life of prayer is fundamental to a life of action, and so guidelines and suggestions are outlined in the cenacle formation book. By taking advantage of the Sacraments of Mercy -- Eucharist and Reconciliation -- cenacle members will find spiritual guidance and strength for their spiritual journey.
2. Lay Facilitator
The lay facilitator is the person who has the responsibility for guiding the cenacle through the sharing and prayers of the session. In some areas, the facilitator may be a deacon or catechist, but this is not a requirement. It is essential for the facilitators both to develop their own spiritual life, and the ability to promote the spiritual development of the fellowship. The facilitator keeps the fellowship on the study topic with love, understanding and flexibility. Shy members must be encouraged and respected, and extroverted members must be encouraged to share the discussion time with others; creating a warm, accepting, open climate for cohesiveness within the cenacle. The facilitator should be able to help the fellowship grow in knowledge of Catholic teaching and the message of Divine Mercy so as to integrate these in their daily life. The facilitator will help the different members develop and rotate responsibilities, i.e., keeping in touch with sick members and their needs, preparing formation materials/questions to be shared, coordinating the group's mercy project, etc.
3. Spiritual Director or Mentor
To help the cenacle avoid problems, and through periodic evaluation ensure the progress of its development, those desiring to form a cenacle should seek out a priest, whether it be the local parish pastor, or another, who will be able to take on this role and even occasionally celebrate Holy Mass for the cenacle to enhance its unity. It is not required that he be present at the cenacle meetings, but that periodically he evaluate the community with the facilitator, discern what works of mercy it should assume, clarify any questions or concerns that may arise, and support it with prayer and encouragement.
4. Suffering-Soul Members
A Suffering-soul member of the Eucharistic Apostles of The Divine Mercy is one who consciously and voluntarily offers up prayers and physical sufferings to God for accomplishing our mission. Since we realize that these members are channels of great spiritual power and so would be exceedingly helpful to this ministry, we encourage each Eucharistic Apostle to secure the support and prayers of at least one such willing person.
Suffering-soul members should be instructed as to the value and importance of their contribution of prayer and sacrifice to EADM. Even though they may not be able to attend meetings, the facilitator shall ensure that their intentions will be remembered by the cenacle during the weekly prayers of petition.
Click Here to View a Sample Cenacle Invitation Flyer