Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults

What is RCIA?

RCIA is the process by which men and women become members of the Catholic Church. Because the process is part of the liturgical cycle, we begin our weekly inquiry sessions in the fall before Advent. RCIA takes place within the context of the parish community, and after a suitable period of formation, culminates in the reception of the Sacraments of initiation.

Formation in several areas of study:

• Scripture - The stories of God's people

• Teaching - What Catholics Believe

• Prayer - How we communicate with God.

• Liturgy - How the community worships

• Mission - How we live what we believe.

The process of initiation is for adults who...

• Are not baptized and want to become Catholic Christians thought the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist.

• Are Baptized Christians, in either another faith tradition or Catholic, who want full Sacramental membership in the Roman Catholic Church thought Confirmation and Eucharist.

• Attend Catholic Church because a loved one or spouse and are not sure if the Catholic Church is for them, but are willing to ask questions and make inquiries.

How does RCIA work?

• God Calls, we respond. With the process of Christian initiation, men and women of all stages of faith journey together in a non-threatening and non-pressured atmosphere to learn more about the Catholic Church.

• The RCIA provides a forum for shared spiritual growth and a means to explore the Catholic tradition through scripture, sacraments, church teachings, and social outreach within the context of a Christian community.