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Every year adults are welcomed into the Catholic Community through The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA.) RCIA is suited to both those who are new to the Catholic faith and those who did not complete the sacraments of initiation (baptism, first Eucharist, and confirmation.) We help to prepare adults to become Catholic and partake of the Sacraments. By contributing to the Christian development of others, you will revisit and strengthen your own faith. We serve as a companion, guide, and witness. If you are an adult interested in receiving the Sacraments of Initiation, please contact the Parish Office.
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What does RCIA Entail?
RCIA stands for Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, which is a process through which non-baptized men and women enter the Catholic Church. (It is also for those baptized in a different faith tradition who wish to become Catholic, or baptized Catholic, but never confirmed) It includes several stages marked by study, prayer, and rites at Mass. Participants in the RCIA are known as catechumens. They undergo a process of conversion as they study the Gospel, profess faith in Jesus and the Catholic Church, and receive the sacraments of baptism, confirmation, and Holy Eucharist. The RCIA process follows the ancient practice of the Church and was restored by the Second Vatican Council as the normal way adults prepare for baptism. In 1974 the Rite for Christian Initiation for Adults was formally approved for use in the United States.
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Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults Steps
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Pre-CatechumenateThis is the earliest phase in the process; it is also known as the Period of Inquiry. Catechumens and Candidates acknowledge that Christ is calling them into the Church through the movement of the Holy Spirit. This is a time for seeking and reflection.
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Rite of Initiation
The first Rite in the RCIA process, the Rite of Initiation accepts new members into the worshipping community.
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CatechumenateThe longest part of the process, the Catechumenate is a time of learning and formation in the traditions and doctrine of the Catholic Church. This is a time for sharing stories, reading scripture, and studying the Church customs, traditions, and doctrine. Participants also participate in worship services and various Church rituals.
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Rite of Election
Catechumens and Candidates are chosen to be received by the bishop and the community and to receive the Sacraments of Initiation at Easter.
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Initiation
At the Easter Vigil (Holy Saturday), all newly elected members of the community who have been journeying through the RCIA process are welcomed formally into the community of believers through receiving the Sacraments of Initiation – Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation.
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Mystagogy
This is a time of reflection and celebration after the formal reception into the Catholic Church. Mystagogia means “leading into the mystery” and it is a time to explore the deep mystery of our faith and go forth to help build the reign of God on Earth as new members of the faithful.
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