RCIA

The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults or “RCIA”

RCIA may be for you. Are you . . .

• An unbaptized person who wants to become Catholic?
• A person baptized in another tradition, who wishes to become Catholic?
• A Christian who simply wants to know more about the Catholic faith?
• A baptized Catholic who has not received Holy Communion or Confirmation?
• An active Catholic who wishes to assist another in embracing the Catholic Life?

Then RCIA is for you!

Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) provides a process for people who are seeking to learn more about or conversion to Catholicism. This process includes four periods, each corresponding to a person’s growth in faith and entry into the life of the Catholic community:

• Inquiry – During this period, individuals are given the opportunity to ask questions about the Catholic faith. Topics of sessions include the existence of God, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, the Mass, and the Christian Community. Sessions begin at the end of August and extend through mid October.
• Catechumenate – The teachings of the church are explored in greater detail during this period. Topics include Catholic Morality, the seven Sacraments, Social Justice, Sexual Morality and the Consistent Life Ethic. These sessions continue until Lent.
• Purification and Enlightenment – This period coincides with the season of Lent. Individuals reflect on what God is calling them to do and further explore the Church’s teachings on the Communion of Saints, the Blessed Mother, Ecumenism, the Lord’s Prayer and the Creed.
• Mystagogy – During the fifty days of the Easter season, the newly initiated explore their continuing process of conversion, parish life, and stewardship. This period extends until Pentecost.

For more information about RCIA at St. Mary’s, please contact Brian Eltz, 215.805.5335