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What is R.C.I.A.? - First Step: Period of Inquiry
- Second Step: Rite of Acceptance
- Third Step: Rite of Election
- Fourth Step: Initiation and Mystagogia
- The Journey of Faith...
For more information about the RCIA program, contact Noreen Shea,
Campus Minister: (973) 761-9489,
sheanore@shu.edu
Is RCIA for YOU? It is if you:
- Would like to learn more about the Catholic faith
- Are interested in becoming Catholic
- Are a baptized Catholic who wishes to receive Communion or
Confirmation
What is RCIA?
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is a way in which
adults become full, active members of the Catholic Church. The goal of
the RCIA process is full, conscious, and active participation in an
exciting life with Jesus Christ within His Catholic Church. RCIA helps
adults grow in their relationship with God, become familiar with
Catholic teachings and practices, get acquainted with the faith
community, and get involved in service within the community as a whole.
Many persons who want to join the Catholic Church have already been baptized in another Christian Church. They do not need to be rebaptized. They will follow a form of these four steps adapted to their particular needs and concerns.
- Unique to each individual.
- Time for asking questions.
- Time to intensely examine one’s personal relationship with God.
- Ends when inquirers become firm in their desire for initiation
and for study of Catholic teachings and practices.
- Begins with the Rite of Acceptance into the Order of Catechumens
or, for those who are already baptized, the Rite of Welcoming.
- Time of learning the teachings of the Church and beginning to
accept Catholic teachings and practices.
- Sponsors accompany catechumens and candidates on their journey.
- Length of Catechumenate period can vary from person to person.
- Ends when the catechumens discern that God is calling them to
receive the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, First Communion,
Confirmation).
- Begins with Rite of Election.
- Catechumens are now called the Elect.
- Time of intense preparation during Lent to celebrate the
Resurrection of Jesus at Easter and to receive the Sacraments of
Initiation.
- Begins with the reception of the Sacraments of Baptism,
Confirmation, and First Communion during the Easter Season.
- Time of reflection on the commitment made to the Lord, the
Church, and the faith community.
- Time of finding a place in the community and getting involved.
The Journey of Faith Lasts a Lifetime. The Results of the Journey Never
End.
For more information about the RCIA program, contact Noreen Shea, Campus
Minister: (973) 761-9489, sheanore@shu.edu