The Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults, R.C.I.A., is the traditional practice of the Church for preparing non-baptized adults for full participation in the sacramental life of the Church. RCIA is a “Journey of Faith” or a gradual process of Christian initiation for those adults who:

1. Have not been baptized and would like to be received fully into the Catholic Church through Baptism.
2. Have been baptized in another Christian community and seek full reception into the Catholic Church.
3. Have been baptized Catholic as infants but who have not received the sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist.

The program begins in the fall of each year and celebrates the Easter Vigil where the candidates who have committed to becoming Catholic are initiated into the Church through the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Eucharist. The process culminates with Pentecost.

RCIA is a four step process that takes place within the community of the faithful.

1. Period of Inquiry- This is a time of evangelization and introduction to the basic Catholic life, prayers, liturgical actions and teachings. This period ends with the Rite of Acceptance into the Order of Catechumens.
   
   Each candidate or catechumen will have a Catholic Sponsor who will assist the candidate in his/her journey. They serve the candidate as a bridge to the community of the faithful.
2. Period of Catechumenate- This is a time of learning about Catholic Sacramental life and a time of spiritual development. It ends with mutual discernment and the Rite of Election.
3. Period of Purification and Enlightenment- Coincides with Lent and is an intense period of prayer and preparation for the Easter celebration and sacraments of initiation.
4. Final period or Mystagogia- Extends through the Easter season and is dedicated to deepen the Christian experience.

RCIA meets on Tuesday nights from 7:00-8:30 pm in the church lower level.

Contact

Michael Mullink
Coordinator of Adult Faith Formation
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404-636-1418 ext. 224