Rite
of Christian Initiation of Adults
(RCIA
for those seeking to join the Church)
The
Rites of Christian Initiation come to us from the very early Church. this
process was developed for those who wanted to learn because they
had observed the early christian communities and wanted to know more
about this person of Jesus. It is this deepest identity with the
early church which has called us to re-establish this connection and to
welcome those who are searching.
Since
1988 this process has been mandated by the Church for every parish to establish
a catechumenate. it is during this prayer time that one is welcomed,
learns abou thte scriptures and prayer, the Mass, the sacraments, the history
and the doctrines of our Catholic Church. During this time, some who are
searching choose to join our faith communities. They then take steps or
Rites along the way. They become fully initiated at the Easter
Vigil with Baptism, make a Profession of faith, are Confirmed, and then
they receive the Eucharist.
The
support and prayers of the faith community are essential to the
catechumens and candidates as they continue on their own journey of faith.
Those who have already been baptized will join the community with Full
Profession of Faith at the same Easter Vigil. those who have never been
confirmed as adults may also participate in this process of preparation.
This
process begins in late summer or early Fall and continues thru May until
Pentecost. The group meets weekly for presentations, small group sharing
and prayer. Each person has a sponsor who supports and prays for
them, introduces them to others within the community, and helps to answer
some of their many questions.
Our
program is coordinated by a team who work with those of neighboring
parishes who come together for formation and then return to their own
faith communities for the Rites of Initiation. Call the parish office for
information or to sign up.
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