“As the deer longs for flowing streams, so longs my soul for Thee, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God…” (Psalm 42:1-2)
RCIA – THE RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS
Welcome! We are so pleased that you have felt called to become Catholic. The way in which the baptized Christian or the unbaptized person journeys to become Roman Catholic, ultimately celebrating the Real Presence at the Lord’s table, is through RCIA, which stands for the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults. Each stage of this journey is ritually celebrated and recognized with special prayers and liturgical ceremony in the presence of the worshiping community.
Who is the RCIA Designed For?
Many people benefit from the RCIA:
- RCIA is for those persons who have never been baptized and seek to join the community of believers through the Catholic Church. These men and women are called "Catechumens."
- RCIA is for those who have been baptized in another Christian faith, but are seeking to join the Catholic Church. These men and women are called "Candidates."
- RCIA is also for those who have been baptized in the Catholic faith but who have never been fully initiated, through the Sacraments of Eucharist and/or Confirmation. These participants are also called Candidates.
- Others who participate in RCIA are: Catholic adults who serve as Sponsors for the catechumens and candidates. These people have a very important role in helping to nurture and introduce the catechumens and candidates to the Church community by providing support, example and prayer.
The RCIA is a wonderful opportunity for all Catholics to reflect on the various Rites and Sacraments that take place during the initiation process, and renew their own faith as witnesses to the journey of faith that is begun by the candidates and catechumens.
The Four Stages of the RCIA
- Inquiry - The initial period during which newcomers are able to ask questions, share their stories, and reflect on the place of God in their lives.
- Catechumenate - A longer period of formation and reflection on the Word of God.
- Purification and Enlightenment - A time of continued instruction coupled with more intensive preparation and prayer, lasting through the season of Lent and culminating at the Easter Vigil with reception of the Sacraments of Initiation.
- Mystagogia - The time after the catechumens and candidates have been received into full communion with the Church. During this time, the newly initiated are more fully strengthened and integrated into the life of the Church.
Meetings: Wednesday evening, 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm in the Parish Life Center Room 5
From September 13, 2023 through Easter Vigil 2024
We are happy to answer your questions! For more information, please contact Deacon Larry Condon at 772-285-3417.
Be sure to return to our home page to see the other articles about the Catholic faith for you!