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Christian Initiation (RCIA) |
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What is the Christian Initiation Process? The Catholic Church warmly welcomes new members and tries to provide an appropriate spiritual formation for each person’s need. Through this process, the Church encourages an ongoing conversion to Jesus Christ and the reign of God He proclaimed. This process called CHRISTIAN INITIATION provides an opportunity to learn about the faith and make a careful decision about becoming a member of the Roman Catholic Church. |
The Period of Catechumenate is the time set aside for those who profess their faith in Jesus Christ and desire to know more about the Church. These candidates enter the order of the catechumens. During this time most of the catechesis (teaching) takes place. With the help of a sponsor and members of the parish, the catechumens experience the Church as community of believers. They begin to understand and appreciate the teachings, tradition and Scriptures of our faith. The Period of Purification is the time for candidates to receive a formal invitation to become a member of the faith. They are welcomed both at the parish and at a celebration presided over by the Bishop. This takes place during Lent and other rites or ceremonies are also celebrated. The Scrutinies are intended to strengthen all that is good and remove all that is harmful or sinful in their lives. The Sacraments of Initiation are received during the Easter Vigil. The sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist are celebrated as appropriate. If you have been Baptized in another faith you may not need to be rebaptized. The Director will determine this. The Period of Mystagogy is the 50 day period following Easter. It completes the initiation process. It is a time for the Neophytes (new members) to find their home in the community and consider how they will share in the mission of the Church through Christian service. This is a lifelong responsibility. How Long Does it Take? Christian Initiation is not a program. It is the Church's way of Ministering sensitively to those who seek membership. For that reason some people will need more time than others to prepare for the lifelong commitment that comes with membership in the Catholic Church. The usual time of preparation is one to two years. For those already Baptized and who seek full communion in the Catholic Church, the time may vary. For those who are divorced, the time might be extended as well. The average is Attendance is required at weekly meetings, Sunday celebrations and Mass, and at one all day retreat. If this is a problem, please speak to the Director. It does not cost anything to join the Catholic Church. Who Can Participate? Anyone who is interested in knowing more about the Catholic Church is welcome to attend. It does not matter if you are baptized or un-baptized. All are welcome. It does not matter if you were raised in any other religion or none all are welcome. Children over the age of 8 are included for baptism, and first communion. We also encourage catholic spouses or significant others to attend with you. Children are also welcome. Sponsors are strongly encouraged to attend. Does Anyone Help Me? All along the journey you will receive support and assistance. We are blessed with a wonderful team of loving people who help you to feel at home and to have your questions answered in a safe and open setting. You will also choose a sponsor. A sponsor is a person who is an active practicing Catholic who will support you along the way. If you do not know anyone who will sponsor you, we have a group of people ready and anxious to help you. How Do I Begin? To begin you simply call the parish office and sign up. You will be contacted about classes and meeting times. We look forward to serving you. If you have any questions please contact: | |