The Rite Of Christian Initiation Of Adults (RCIA)
What Is It?
The RCIA is the process by which men and women become members of the Catholic Church. Because the process is ongoing, people begin whenever the Spirit moves them to inquire. There is no formal “start”. (For children of catechetical age, there is a comparable process, RCIC in conjunction with religion classes.)
The RCIA takes place within the context of the parish community, and after a suitable period of formation, culminates in the Sacraments of initiation.
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Scripture: The Atories of God’s people
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Teaching: What Catholics Believe
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Prayer: How We Communicate with God
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Liturgy: How the Community Worships
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Mission: How We Live out What We Believe
Some Terms of RCIA:
Catechumenate: the process of formation leading to entrance into the Catholic Church
Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist
Catechumen: an un-baptized person who seeks entrance into the Church
Candidate: a person baptized in another Christian faith tradition who seeks membership in the Catholic Church
Who belongs in RCIA?
The process of Christian initiation is for adults who…
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Want to learn more about the Catholic Church
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Are un-baptized and want to become Catholic Christians through the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist.
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Are baptized Christians (in another faith tradition or Catholic) who want full sacramental membership in the Roman Catholic Church through Confirmation and Eucharist.
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Attend Catholic Church because of a loved one or spouse and are not sure if the Catholic Church is for them—but are willing to ask questions.
How long is the process?
RCIA at Resurrection usually goes from September through the following June. Beginning or completing the RCIA process is strictly up to the individual.
How does it work?
God calls, and we respond. With the process of Christian Initiation, men and women at all stages of the faith journey come together in a non-threatening and non-pressured atmosphere to learn more about the Catholic Church. The RCIA provides a forum for shared spiritual growth, and a means to explore the Catholic Christian tradition through the scripture, sacraments, church teaching, and social outreach, all in the midst of the Catholic faith community.
How do I learn more?
Contact Rosemary Baloun RCIA/RCIC (Rite of Christian Initiation of Children) Coordinator or call the Parish Office 336-7768 if you have questions about the process. Come to a meeting designed to answer some of your questions. Inquiry sessions are usually in the fall, but can be scheduled anytime.