RCIA - The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults

What is the first step?

Anyone who is thinking about becoming a Catholic or who would like more information can contact Mike Thibert at the parish office at 488-4467 (ext. 214). Inquire about the process of Christian Initiation for Adults.

What is RCIA?

The Rite of Christian Initiation is designed for Adults who, after hearing the mystery of Christ proclaimed, consciously and freely seek the living God and enter the way of faith and conversion as the Holy Spirit opens their hearts. By God's help they will be strengthened spiritually during their preparation and at the proper time will receive the sacraments fruitfully.

This Rite includes not simply the celebration of the sacraments of baptism, confirmation, and eucharist, but also all the rites belonging to the catechumenate.

What is the catechumenate?

The catechumenate is the period of time after the Rite of Acceptance where the one inquiring about the way of Catholic faith is welcomed into the community for further growth in discipleship with Jesus.

This process goes back to the early Church where those desiring to be baptized were immersed in the Christian community. Here they learned to share all things in common.

They grew in faith as they heard the stories of Jesus and saw how each Christian's story was modelled on the life of Jesus. (cf. ACTS of the Apostles 2: 42- 47)

"The initiation of catechumens is a gradual process that takes place within the community of the faithful." ( INTRODUCTION #4)

How long is the process?

This depends on the individual.