|
Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults and Children of Catechetical Age (RCIA)
RCIA is a series of rites, conducted in the context of learning about the faith and spiritual information, through which a person is fully incorporated into the Body of Christ, the Church. People involved in the RCIA process are either catechumens (those who have never been baptized) or candidates (those who are baptized in a different faith tradition or a baptized Catholic who was never catechized). It is a journey to see how gospel values and the truths of the faith may be lived out. Candidates and catechumens are mentored throughout the process by a team of catechists and sponsors. For more information see http://www.ecatholic2000.com/rcia/rcia.shtml.
Membership:
Team of Catechists & Sponsors, Adults & Children of catechetical age.
Any parishioner who wishes to share in any session may attend.
Steps in the RCIA process:
1. Inquiry
During this initial stage of RCIA, also known as the precatechumenate, individuals first meet with Sister Mary Therese and discuss their interest in the church. They can ask questions and are introduced to the Gospel. There is no set time period for this phase.
2. Catechumenate/Rite of Acceptance
When a person has decided to join the Catholic Church, he or she begins the Catechumenate. This begins with the Rite of Acceptance, a rite held during Sunday liturgy in which they express their readiness to accept the Gospel and be received into the Catholic Church. During this stage, which can last for months or even years, the catechumens formally study Church teaching.
3. Purification & Enlightenment/Rite of Election
This period takes place during Lent. Beginning with the Rite of Election on the First Sunday of Lent, catechumens and candidates begin a final preparation for initiation into the Catholic faith. During the Period of Purification, they also participate in several rites called Scrutinies during parish liturgies.
4. Initiation
At the Easter Vigil, catechumens are baptized and confirmed; candidates are confirmed.
5. Mystagogy
The word Mystagogy comes from Greek meaning “interpretation of mystery.” During this final period of RCIA, the new Catholics (called neophytes) deepen their understanding of the paschal mystery and make it a part of their lives.
Meetings:
Team—alternate months
Inquiry-twice monthly (2nd & 4th Tuesdays)
Catechumenate-weekly after dismissal from 9:30 a.m. Mass
Mystagogy - weekly after Easter until Pentecost, then monthly.
The RCIA process is year round so one may begin any time after an interview with the director. The Children’s Catechumenate is available for children of catechetical age & proceeds from September until Pentecost.
Other Adult Faith Formation Opportunities:
Bible Study
Landings (Returning Catholics)
Adult Confirmation – For Catholic adults who have never been confirmed, this program of preparation includes classes and formative activities. Confirmation takes place on Pentecost.
Contact:
Sister Mary Therese at 362-0685 ext. 24
Mary Jo Bukowski, Parish Council Liaison, mjbukowski@saintandrew.org
|
