RCIA – Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults
Whether you want to become a Catholic or return to the Church,
we welcome you.
To get started, please contact Parish Assistant, Amy Rohyans (arohyans@sttimchurch.org). Formal RCIA classes begin in September, but we are happy to talk to you about RCIA and your journey in faith at any time.
BECOMING A CATHOLIC
The RCIA is a conversion process supported in prayer and example by the whole Christian community.
Anyone non-baptized or baptized in another Christian faith tradition is welcome to “Come & See” and learn about the Church with the possibility of becoming a full member. The RCIA normally meets weekly and can last anywhere from a period of weeks or months to up to three years. Celebration of the Sacraments of Initiation normally take place at the Easter Vigil.
RCIA is:
A Journey of Faith...
that leads to conversion of mind and spirit. Guided by the Holy Spirit and the Gospel of Jesus Christ, candidates listen to the God’s call to a deeper relationship with Him and a more abundant life in love and service of one another.
A Journey in Community...
Parish Staff, Catechists, the RCIA Team and the whole Parish Community support the candidates through prayer, teaching, and their own witness of faith.
A Community Centered in Christ’s Prayer and the Eucharist...
which welcomes those seeking membership to a deeper love and understanding of Christ’s call to unity in the Sacrament of the Eucharist in which Christ gives himself to us in the sacrificial meal during the Mass.
A Community on Mission...
to spread the Good News of the Gospel; to bring hope and compassion to our world through outreach to the poor and helpless.
RCIA PHASES AND RITES:
Period of Inquiry
“Inquirers” reflect upon and discern their call into the Church and are encouraged ask questions and share their perceptions.
The Rite of Acceptance
Normally around the first Sunday of Advent, welcomes those who wish to continue in the process. The non-baptized or “Catechumens” and those already baptized or “Candidates for Full Communion” begin the phase of Catechumenate or period of instruction.
The Rite of Election
Also called the Period of Purification and Enlightenment, coincides with the Season of Lent. It is a more intense period of spiritual reflection in preparation for the Sacraments of Initiation.
The Celebration of Initiation
Usually takes place at the Easter Vigil.
Mystagogy
A celebratory time of “unwrapping the gift” or entering into the “mystery” of God’s life more deeply as new members of the faithful.