Journey To Becoming Catholic

                 I. What is RCIA?
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (R.C.I.A.) is a way for adults to become full, active, participating members of the Catholic Church.

III. Period of Inquiry 

Meeting other people who are also inquiring about the Catholic Faith, and members of the RCIA team to share stories of their unique faith journey.

                  V. Rite of Election 

Catechumens now discern, with the help of their sponsors and the RCIA team, that God is calling them to receive the Sacraments of Initiation at the next Easter Vigil. This Rite is celebrated in the Sunday Liturgy on the First Sunday of Lent. The parish prays for them throughout this journey to help them fully prepare for the Sacraments.

           II. What is the process?
The sessions meet on Tuesday evenings beginning in September through Easter every year. It is a process of slowly growing in what Catholics believe, and a time of prayerful discernment. The goal is to encounter Jesus Christ and develop a personal relationship with Him, and Catholic Faith traditions.

               IV. Rite of Acceptance

Those ready to make a faith commitment to Jesus in the Catholic Church begin formal study of the teachings and practices of the Catholic Church. This Rite accepts them into the Order of Catechumens during a ceremony in the Sunday liturgy. They are signed with the cross of Christ and introduced to the parish.

         VI. Initiation and Mystagogia

 On Holy Saturday, the parish assembles for the Easter Vigil and the Elect celebrate their Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Eucharist, as we celebrate the Resurrection of the Lord. Now the person is a fully initiated member of the Catholic Church.