RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation)

RCIA for St Paul & St John Parishes

The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (often abbreviated RCIA) is the process through which interested adults and older children are gradually introduced to the Roman Catholic faith and way of life.

The RCIA is a communal process and involves a number of stages punctuated by liturgical rites to aid and assist the potential convert toward the final rite, usually at the Easter Vigil at which time they will become full members of the Roman Catholic Church. The entire process takes several months, (ideally a minimum of one complete liturgical year), but participants are generally invited to proceed at a pace which suits them individually. The Church prefers to call this a process and not a program.

Some Individuals may have been baptized in another faith, some may not have been baptized at all. This is also the appropriate faith journey for adults who have been baptized in the Catholic church but may not have received other sacraments such as reconciliation, first communion or been confirmed.

For those who join an RCIA process it is a period of reflection, prayer, instruction, discernment, and formation. There is no set timetable and those who join the process are encouraged to go at their own pace, taking as much time as they need.

Those who enter the process are encouraged to begin attending Holy Mass on a Sunday, attend a weekly RCIA session, and become involved in the activities of their local parish.

If you or someone you know is interested in finding out more please contact Greg Brodner email at ymmrcia@gmail.com or call at 780-880-8671