The Rite of Christian Initiation for AdultsT

What is R.C.I.A.?

The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults is the Church's process of welcoming newcomers into full communion with the Catholic Church. The RCIA program involves not just the newcomer or "inquirer" but all the members of the community who by prayer and personal example help the inquirer find his or her place in the Church.

Who is R.C.I.A. for?
A lot of people benefit from RCIA.
The RCIA program is open to all adults, even those who are already Catholic but who may be seeking an update about their faith or who just want to learn more as they continue their journey of faith.
RCIA is for those persons who have never been baptized and who seek to join the community of believers. 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 for those who have been baptized in the Catholic faith but who have never been fully initiated, through the Sacraments of Eucharist/Confirmation. These are also called "Candidates."
Others who participate in RCIA are the following: 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.

When do the R.C.I.A. sessions meet?
RCIA sessions begin in the Fall. RCIA meets from 7:00 - 9:00 PM in the St. Joseph Convent Meeting Room. These RCIA sessions will continue to meet each Thursday until May.
During this time, we will experience the four stages of the process as outlined in this article. Our process is geared to the individuals seeking full incorporation into the Catholic Church. At each session, we begin with reflection on the Scripture readings for each Sunday Mass. We use The New Catholic Answer Bible, related articles, and guest speakers.
 
The Four Stages of  R.C.I.A.

1. Inquiry - The initial period which may last anywhere from a few weeks to several months during which newcomers are able to ask questions, share their stories, and reflect on the place of God in their lives.

2. Catechumenate - A lengthy period of formation and reflection on the Word of God.

3. 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.

4. 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 integrated into the life of the Church, and continue to meet for discussion and faith sharing.

 
 
 Pope Francis in “The Joy of the Gospel” wants us to consider the following:
 
“I invite all Christians, everywhere, at this very moment, to a renewed personal encounter with Jesus Christ, or at least an openness to letting him encounter them; I ask all of you to do this unfailingly each day. No one should think that this invitation is not meant for him or her, since ‘no one is excluded from the joy brought by the Lord.’ The Lord does not disappoint those who take this risk; whenever we take a step toward Jesus, we come to realize that he is already there, waiting for us with open arms. . . . With a tenderness which never disappoints, but is always capable of restoring our joy, he makes it possible for us to lift up our heads and to start anew. Let us not flee from the resurrection Jesus, let us never give up, come what will. May nothing inspire more than his life, which impels us onwards.”
 
It is this call of Jesus that our Candidates and Catechumens hear. It is this call of Jesus to which they respond. Guided by the Holy Spirit, they begin this journey to enter into full communion in the Catholic Church. They need each one of us in the Holy Trinity Parish Community to support them and to be with them on this journey.
 
Please pray for them, and if you can, join us for some of our sessions on a Thursday evening. Perhaps you are someone who might be interested in exploring the Catholic Faith? Do you need preparation for Confirmation and/or Holy Communion? Do you know someone with these interests? Parishioners and friends have successfully invited others to share our faith. There is nothing like a personal invitation. Join this important evangelization effort and spread the word.
 
Please contact Sister Sheila at holytrinitysistersheila@gmail.com or 609-822-7105 x110.