THE RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS
RCIA
The process whereby Christian or non-Christian adults become full members of the Catholic Church.
What is RCIA?
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is a process of conversion by which interested men and women explore Catholicism, and participate in spiritual and educational formation that prepares them to receive the sacraments of the Church.
What is the process?
1. The process begins with a Period of Inquiry during which participants learn the core beliefs of the Catholic church, sacraments and rituals, and some basics of church history. During this time participants typically ask a lot of questions (and receive answers!). After this initial period of inquiry, participants are asked to consider whether they want to continue in the RCIA process. The RCIA team helps participants reach this important decision.
2. Next is an extended Period of Catechuminate during which participants attend weekly sessions that explore the Catholic Faith in depth, with particular emphasis on:
• The development of both a personal and a communal prayer life;
• Reading Scripture as a guide to understanding the Christian response to life;
• An awareness of the presence of Jesus Christ in our lives and our relationship to Him;
• A commitment to and involvement in parish activities and ministries.
3. The period of Purification and Enlightenment lasts from Ash Wednesday through Easter Vigil and is the time of intense personal examination and scrutiny of conscience, prayer, confession and reconciliation. This period culminates in Baptism (for the unbaptized), Confirmation, and Reception into the Community.
4. Mystagogy is the period between Easter and Pentecost during which participants deepen their understanding of the Catholic faith.
Who may apply to participate in RCIA?
Any adult may apply who is 18 years and older, is unbaptized or has been baptized in another another faith using the Trinitarian formula, or is a baptized but uncatechized Catholic. For children between the ages of 7 and 17 we offer RCIA Adapted to Children.
What if I'm married civilly, divorced, or divorced and remarried?
If you were married in a civil ceremony or if you are divorced and remarried, the Church may require an annulment or convalidation. Your circumstances must be addressed before beginning RCIA. (For more information contact one of the RCIA coordinators or speak with the deacon or priest.)
If you are divorced but not remarried, you are free to begin the RCIA process. An annulment may be required if you later choose to marry in the Catholic Church.
What documents are required for becoming Catholic?
Baptized Christians of another faith will need a copy of their baptismal record. Copies of marriage certificates and decrees of annulment in the Church may be required if needed.
What about attendance?
Regular participation is strongly encouraged in Sunday Mass and in all RCIA sessions, days of prayer and community service events. Attendance is viewed as a commitment to the community. Please discuss any attendance conflicts with one of the RCIA team members.
Does anyone help me?
You will be paired with a sponsor to help you throughout the initiation process. Sponsors are chosen from the Catholic community as should be faithful Catholics who are comfortable sharing their faith and their love of the Church. The RCIA team is always available to help the participant choose a sponsor.Those who seek the sacrament of Baptism may choose a godparent in addition to their sponsor. Details will be explained during the process.
When does the process start?
Normally, the Period of Inquiry begins in early September for those planning to receive the Sacraments at the following Easter Vigil. Classes continue from September through Pentecost (6 weeks after Easter). Timing of the process and the reception of sacraments is always dependent upon the participant's spiritual readiness to move forward.
How can I learn more?
Contact Angie Raddin at 603- 225-2131 or angie@christthekingnh.org