The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA)
Interested in becoming a Catholic? Do you know someone who has expressed an interest in the Catholic Faith? Are you a baptized adult who has never received Eucharist or Confirmation? Maybe you just want to learn more about the Catholic Church? Whatever our situation, the RCIA process may be for you....
The RCIA process has several distinct stages:
- Inquiry: The initial period before you decide to become a Catholic. You are asking questions, checking it out, but are not yet ready to commit.
- Catechumenate: Those who decide to become Catholic, and have never been baptized, are being formed for a life in Christ are called Catechumens, an ancient name from the early Church. As a Catechumen you are developing your faith, learning about the Catholic faith and culture, participating in the Sunday Mass, getting to know parishioners, and engaging service opportunities.*
- Purification and Enlightenment: During the Season of Lent, the entire parish community will journey with you for 40 days, as you intensify your preparation to receive the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism - Confirmation - Eucharist) at the Easter Vigil. During this journey you will experience a beautiful series of a ancient rituals and Gospel-based meditations.
- The Sacraments of Initiation: This is the culmination of the RCIA process! During the Easter Vigil, the parish community joins in joyful celebration with you, as you receive the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism - Confirmation - Eucharist).
- Mystatogy: After the celebration of the Sacraments of Initiation this period helps you to reflect on and learn more about the mysteries of the Mass and the Sacraments in which you now fully participate.
*Those who are already baptized are called Candidates, and also learn about the Catholic Faith and culture while deepening their baptismal call to discipleship. They are received into the Catholic Church and complete the Sacraments of Initiation (Confirmation and Eucharist) at a Sunday Mass during the Easter Season.
While the RCIA focuses on the conversion of the individual and their faith journey, it also renews the entire parish community through the shared experience of growing in faith,
If you are interested in learning more about becoming Catholic, please contact Fr. John Fisher, OSFS
