RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults) is the formation process whereby adults become Catholic either from another faith tradition or no faith background. The journey is Scripture-centered and involves sharing, fellowship, and doctrine. Sessions are held on Sunday mornings, 9:30 through 10:45am, year-round. Sponsors are continually needed for a long-term commitments. Sponsor orientation is offered several times a year. Catechists are needed from the parish for an occasional time commitment and training is provided.
RCIA Period Expectations
How Long Does It Take:
Adults may begin at anytime. Candidates are brought into full communion when they are “ready”. Catechumens are initiated at the Easter Vigil after a liturgical year of catechesis.
Precatechumenate / Inquiry:
Answer questions and concerns
Address misconceptions of the Catholic Church
Provide initial knowledge of Catholic faith and doctrine
Facilitate the start of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ through prayer
Determine individual catechesis needed
Help discern readiness to move into the catechumenate
Prepare inquirers for Rite of Acceptance / Welcoming
Catechumenate:
Facilitate an ongoing personal relationship with Jesus Christ through His Word in the Sunday Scriptures
Prepare catechumens and candidates for upcoming rites
Teach Church doctrine that flows from each Sunday Scripture
Facilitate a relationship with participants and the Church community
Provide sacramental preparation for the Candidates
Help discern readiness to be Catholic
Purification and Enlightenment:
Facilitate a more serious reflection on conversion
Fashion this period as a retreat in preparation for the Easter Vigil
Prepare Elect for rites of this period
Provide sacramental preparation for the Elect
Mystagogy:
Ongoing immersion in Christ’s teachings using Sunday Scriptures
Help integrate Neophytes into the local Church community
Review the sacraments received and discuss continuing Reconciliation and Eucharist, especially for those just baptized
Assist the Neophytes in learning to become spreaders of the “Good News” of Jesus Christ (Evangelization)
Emphasize Pentecost and the Mass for Neophytes
Children:
Separate special age appropriate adaptations of catechetical instruction are made for children ages 7-16.
Rites are celebrated with the adults.
Candidates are brought into full communion with the adults. Catechumens are initiated at the Easter Vigil.