RCIA
What is RCIA?
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the process by which people enter into the Catholic Faith. It is a process in which interested men and women can explore Catholicism and make a decision to become Catholic over a period of months. The process is concerned with the total formation of the person and is often called a “Journey of Faith” because we are all at varying stages in our understanding of what Christ has called us to live.
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the process by which people enter into the Catholic Faith. It is a process in which interested men and women can explore Catholicism and make a decision to become Catholic over a period of months. The process is concerned with the total formation of the person and is often called a “Journey of Faith” because we are all at varying stages in our understanding of what Christ has called us to live.
Who can participate in RCIA?
Any adult 18 years and older who is unbaptized (Catechumen), a baptized Christian of another faith (Candidate), or a baptized Catholic who has not received the sacraments of Holy Eucharist or Confirmation may participate in the RCIA process.
Can I come just to ask questions without making a commitment?
Certainly. The period of inquiry (Pre-catechumenate) is designed specifically for asking lots of questions, learning, and exploring the Catholic Faith without any obligation to continue. Inquirers meet during the summer for discussion and sharing about Catholic Christianity.
What if I decide I want to become Catholic?
If, during the period of inquiry, you feel that God is calling you to the Catholic Church, you will be asked to affirm your decision to continue the conversion process.
The next step is an extended period of sessions and other activities designed to involve participants in the Church community. This period allows participants the opportunity to examine their commitment to the process through regular attendance at sessions, participation in community service events, and involvement in other parish activities.
For those committed, the next step is an intense period of prayer and reflection leading to the Sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation.
The process is completed in a period of reflection and prayer during which the newly baptized and/or confirmed Catholics can further their faith formation.
The next step is an extended period of sessions and other activities designed to involve participants in the Church community. This period allows participants the opportunity to examine their commitment to the process through regular attendance at sessions, participation in community service events, and involvement in other parish activities.
For those committed, the next step is an intense period of prayer and reflection leading to the Sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation.
The process is completed in a period of reflection and prayer during which the newly baptized and/or confirmed Catholics can further their faith formation.
What about attendance?
Attendance is required at Tuesday evening sessions that begins at 7:00pm and concludes at 8:30p.m in Fischer Center-West. These sessions include Catechetical instruction on the Doctrines and teachings of the Catholic Church. RCIA also includes Breaking Open the Word, a time for reflection on the Sunday readings from the 1st Sunday of Advent until Palm/Passion Sunday. Candidates and Catechumens attend the 10am Mass and are dismissed after the homily for a time of reading and reflection on Sacred Scripture.
The formal RCIA program begins in August and concludes on Pentecost.
The formal RCIA program begins in August and concludes on Pentecost.
What if I am married civilly, divorced, or divorced and remarried?
If you were civilly married, the Church will bless your marriage. This is known as convalidatation. If you were divorced and are now remarried, an annulment will be required by the Church. This will take place during the RCIA process.
If you are divorced, but not remarried, you are free to begin the RCIA process. An annulment may be required if you later choose to marry in the Catholic Church.
If you are divorced, but not remarried, you are free to begin the RCIA process. An annulment may be required if you later choose to marry in the Catholic Church.
Who helps me through RCIA?
Our RCIA is composed of a number of parishioners who serve as catechists, sponsors, and provide hospitality.
Sponsors share this journey of faith with you and help you to become an active and vital part of our Catholic family. A suitable sponsor will attend classes and retreats with you and help you to become a part of the All Saints family.
Sponsors share this journey of faith with you and help you to become an active and vital part of our Catholic family. A suitable sponsor will attend classes and retreats with you and help you to become a part of the All Saints family.
How can I learn more?
If you are interested in learning more about the Catholic Church, please contact our Director of Religious Education, Sandy Nettleton at (316) 682-1415.
Check the calendar below for upcoming dates. Sessions begin in August of each year.
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For more questions about Confirmation, please contact the Director of Religious Education, Sandy Nettleton at (316) 682-1415 or [email protected].
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Calendar |