RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) is an ongoing program for unbaptized adults (catechumens) who are interested in becoming Catholic and for adults who have been baptized (candidates) and are seeking to complete the Sacraments of First Communion and Confirmation. Catechumens (unbaptized) and candidates (baptized) are welcomed into our parish community each year at the Easter Vigil.Regular sessions are held every Wednesday night.
Inquiry Classes
The first stage is called the
Period of Inquiry (or the pre-catechumenate). Classes usually last for 3-6 months and are for those in the initial stages of learning about the Catholic faith and/or those seeking more information about God and/or joining the Church. These sessions are informal and friends and spouses are welcome. They will last as long as the student needs to decide if they feel ready to move into the next stage.
Catechumenate
The second stage is called the catechumenate. This is for catechumens (un-baptized) and candidates (baptized).
The Rites of Acceptance and Welcoming mark the begining of this time. Catechesis (
learning about the Word of God through the Lectionary, the Bible and the beliefs of the Church) is studied during this time and may take 1-2 years depending on the amount of adult faith formastion the catechumen or candidate has. Each person's journey is unique and each person is allowed to progress at the rate the individual feels comfortable with. When they are ready to proceed further with their initiation the next stage begins.
Period of Enlightenment and Purification
This third stage is celebrated with the
Rite of Election and
Call to Continuing Conversion at the beginning of Lent and lasts for 40 days. During this time catechesis is not the primary focus of learning. It is a time of discernment and purification and preparation for a new life as a Christian. The
Elect, as they are now called, have a time of intense preparation and prayer along with the celebrations of three public scrutinizes and a retreat in which to prepare for their
Sacraments of Initiation at Easter Vigil.
Mystagogia
The fourth and final stage is a period of exploring the experiences of the fully initiated Christians through the Sacraments, continuing catechesis and parish celebration. It is a time when the neophyte is welcomed into all aspects of the parish life and its service. This is usually 50 days or more depending on personal need. At the end of this time the new Christian begins the rest of their life-long journey in full communion with the Church.
There are also classes for children RCIA (C) and teens RCIA (T) for those youngsters who may not have completed their catechism and sacraments . For more information call:
SCHEDULE OF CLASSES
It starts in September.
Wednesday from 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM (
English & Spanish)