Rite
of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA)
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults is the process for both adults and children to become Catholic and receive the sacraments of initiation – Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist – by nurturing their conversion in the Christian way of life and belief. The RCIA is for adults and school-aged children who are not baptized or have been baptized in another Christian tradition.
The RCIA intends catechesis (education in the Catholic faith) to be more than classroom learning of Catholic dogma. Based on the rhythms of the Church’s life of worship, particularly the Lectionary “cycle of readings,” teaching consists of examination of the Church’s creed, engagement in the life of the parish, participation in the parish’s prayer and an active involvement in the parish’s apostolic life.
The RCIA is a year-round process so that individuals can begin at any time of the year. The RCIA consists of distinct stages over a period of time suitable to bring about a thorough catechesis, significant experience of the parish community, and commitment to the liturgical and moral life of the Catholic faithful. Individuals move through the process at their own pace and spiritual readiness until they are prepared to receive the initiation sacraments. The first stage – Inquiry – is for individuals who want to know more about the Catholic faith. Inquiry sessions for adults are held on Thursday evenings, 7:00-8:30 p.m. After time spent in the Inquiry stage, adults move on to the Catechumenate sessions which are held on Sunday mornings, 9:00-12:00, which includes Breaking Open of the Word session during the 11:00 Mass. Inquiry and Catechumenate sessions for children are held on Sunday mornings, 9:00-10:45.
The RCIA team needs people who desire to share their Catholic faith, life and gifts on the RCIA team as sponsors, greeters/hospitality, catechists, and Breaking Open of the Word session leaders.
CONTACT: Mrs. Mary Richter, RCIA Coordinator at mrichter@stjulie.net or 863-1040 x *817.
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