The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, RCIA, is the process in which adults are initiated into the Catholic Church. Adults who have never been baptized or were baptized in a different faith who wish to become Catholic attend weekly gatherings with the RCIA team. These gatherings provide the opportunity to inquire about joining the Catholic Church, receive instruction on Catholic beliefs and the Sacraments, and share the journey of faith with others.
THE RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS (RCIA)
Ed DeVenney, our pastoral minister, along with Deacon Bob and Fr. Tom are coordinating the upcoming year of RCIA. This is not really a typical church program. The Church refers to it as a process. It is a process because it is about fostering and forming a relationship with Jesus in and through the Tradition of the Roman Catholic faith. Relationship is a process and not a program. RCIA is the way in which adults become part of and fully initiated into the Catholic faith community.
WHAT’S THE FIRST STEP IN THE RCIA PROCESS?
The first step is called the “Inquiry Stage.” This is the time in which individuals come and talk about where they are or are not with respect to faith and belief. This is the time in which questions are addressed and some initial teaching about what the Catholic Church believes is presented. There are no commitments in this part of the process. An individual eventually decides if they are going to continue with the process or not. Our time is meant to address the needs and questions of those who are inquiring about the Catholic faith.
If there is a decision to stay and continue, the next step is called the “Period of the Catechumenate.” Catechumen is a word that means “student.” The commitment becomes more anchored through a more in depth discussion and presentation about the Catholic faith and where an individual can live this faith in their lives.
WHO SHOULD THINK ABOUT ATTENDING RCIA?
- If you have not been baptized into any faith tradition and have questions or are curious about becoming Catholic, you should attend.
- If you have been baptized in another faith tradition but never received any preparation or catechesis (education) on Eucharist and Confirmation in the Catholic faith and would like to become fully initiated in the Catholic faith, you should attend.
- If you have been baptized Catholic but never finished receiving the Sacraments of Initiation, Eucharist and/or Confirmation, and would like to be a full member of the Catholic Church, you should attend.
WHEN WILL WE MEET?
Usually once a week (or so), for about an hour (or so). The schedule is dependent on who signs up and what time is agreeable to everyone involved. We are rather flexible when it comes to individual schedules and want to make this time stress-free and conducive to good discussion and thoughtful reflection.
WHAT CAN PARISHIONERS DO WITH THIS INFORMATION?
If you know of anyone who has been inquiring about becoming Catholic or if you have members of your family who have been wondering how to go about finishing their initiation into the Church through the reception of Eucharist and/or Confirmation, tell them about RCIA. Invite them to attend. Even if they don’t necessarily live in North Olmsted but if they live close by and are able to attend meetings here, they would be most welcomed.
HOW DO INDIVIDUALS SIGN UP? WHAT’S THE NEXT STEP?
Contact us. Call the parish office and speak with Ed DeVenney, Deacon Bob or Fr. Tom with questions or inquiries.