-
The RCIA Process
Introduction/Inquiry
Discernment/Decision/Final Preparation
Sacraments of Initiation
Transition into Catholic Life
For adults who are not baptized or were baptized in another Christian denomination.
The RCIA is a process, more than a program or class. It involves a series of steps toward a fully discerned commitment and entry into the Catholic Church. Movement from one step to the next is celebrated with a liturgical rite. The title Catechumen indicates someone seeking Baptism. The term Candidate indicates an already baptized Christian seeking entrance into Full Communion with the Catholic Church.
First Step: Rite of Acceptance & Welcome
The liturgical rite that marks the beginning of the catechumenate described below. In this rite the inquirers are introduced to this supporting parish community. They make their first commitment of being open to the Word of God and Teachings of the Apostles.
Discernment/Decision/Final Preparation
The Catechumenate provides a fuller understanding of what it means to be a Catholic. It involves weekly participation in a Sunday Mass, small group conversation based on the Scriptural readings for a Sunday, and weekly Sunday morning classes on a particular teaching or practice in the Catholic Tradition. This segment culminates with a decision of commitment to Full Communion with the Catholic Church.
Second Step: Rite of Election
This liturgical rite, celebrated on the 1st Sunday of Lent, begins with a Rite of Sending by this parish to our Bishop. This is followed by a Diocesan-wide gathering during which the Bishop ratifies the Catechumens' readiness for the sacraments of initiation, and the Candidates' advancement toward full Communion. This marks the entry into the final period of preparation, corresponding with the season of Lent.
Sacraments of Initiation
Reception into the Church, usually at the East Vigil, is celebrated with the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist. For those already baptized in another Christian denomination, full initiation into the Church is marked by their Profession of Faith and continues with Confirmation and Eucharist.
Transition into Catholic Life: Mystagogia
In the period between Easter Sunday and Pentecost the new Catholics continue to meet, investigating both the practical means of living in this new life in the Church, and the spiritual impact they are encountering in their young life as Catholics