RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS (AND CHILDREN)

RCIA Registration | RCIC Registration
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What is the RCIA?

The RCIA or Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults is the process through which new adult Catholics are formed and welcomed into any parish. It replaces the convert classes offered prior to the 1970’s. Based on a very early Church model, it is a comprehensive process that includes these elements.

Information sharing – learn what Catholics believe and why

Spiritual formation – experience many different ways of praying, both individually and communally

Living one’s faith – begin to integrate your faith into daily living

Community building – build lasting relationships that help sustain your faith

Who is RCIA for?

The RCIA is designed for those who are not Christians or those baptized in another Christian denomination who are interested in exploring Catholicism. It is also a wonderful opportunity for those who were baptized Catholic but never raised in the faith, and for those who have been away from the Catholic Church for many years.

How does it work?

Weekly Meetings – Interested adults meet weekly on Wednesdays from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. beginning each September. These sessions include prayers, learning on the theme for that night, sharing with others, and opportunities for questions and integrating faith, doctrine and life.

Reading – Reading materials are offered on each topic for those who wish to explore in more depth.

Public Rites – Several times during the RCIA process, those choosing to do so will take a closer step to joining the Church by participating as a group in a brief ceremony during a parish Mass. There is no pressure or assumption that all will join.

Retreat – An overnight retreat is required as a more in-depth experience of prayer, community and learning.

Sponsor – Each participant chooses a practicing Catholic to act as his or her sponsor. A sponsor is one who “walks with you” answering questions, inviting you to parish events to assist you in your journey of faith.

How long does it take?

It is different for every person. Some folks coming from other Christian denominations start with much knowledge of God, as well as a developed relationship with the Lord. Some have already been asking others or reading to find answers to their questions. Many participants will choose to be baptized or welcomed into the Church at the Easter Vigil. They also receive Confirmation and First Eucharist at that time. Some choose to wait another year or two to grow in faith and knowledge. Some choose not to seek membership.

After the Easter Vigil, the new members continue to meet in order that they can pray together, continue to learn what it means to live as a Catholic Christian, and be supported in their new Faith.

How do I get more information?

For further information, call Anne Kidwell at 410-744-6560. After an initial phone call, an interview will be set up.

What about interested children?

It is common to have children age 7 or older: 1) who are not baptized, 2) those baptized in another Christian denomination whose parents now wish to raise them as Catholics, and 3) children baptized Catholic without any formal religious education. These children are invited to a specialized process for children called the RCIC.

The actual sessions are designed and conducted according to the number and ages of the interested children in any given year. Generally these sessions meet bi-weekly to provide a solid Catholic Christian foundation appropriate to the child’s age. The children participate in the public rites several times during the process. Interested parents must also register their child in one of our regular religious education options for children at the child's current grade level.