RCIA – Curious about Catholicism?

What is RCIA?

The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (R.C.I.A.) is a way for adults to become full, active, participating members of the Catholic Church.

What is the process?

The class meets on Tuesday evenings and includes a meal, from the Fall through Easter each year. There are many steps and special rites celebrated throughout the year of preparation. The process involves a period of discernment, practices to encounter Jesus Christ and develop a personal relationship with Him, and instruction in the Catholic Christian Faith tradition.

Four Basic Steps

1. Period of Inquiry – other adults who are also inquiring about the Catholic Faith, and members of the RCIA team to share stories of their unique faith journey.
2. Rite of Acceptance – who have a firm desire for initiation will begin formal study of the teachings and practices of the Catholic Church. This Rite accepts them into the Order of Catechumens during a ceremony in the Sunday liturgy. They are signed with the cross of Christ and introduced to the parish.
3. Rite of Election – Catechumens now discern, with the help of their sponsors and the RCIA team, that God is calling them to receive the Sacraments of Initiation at the next Easter Vigil. This Rite is celebrated in the Sunday Liturgy on the First Sunday of Lent. The parish prays for them in a special way to help them fully prepare for the Sacraments.
4. Initiation and Mystagogia– On Holy Saturday, the parish assembles for the Easter Vigil and the Elect celebrate their Baptism, Confirmation, and First Communion, as we celebrate the Resurrection of the Lord.