Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA)
Are you interested in becoming Catholic or learning more about the Catholic Faith?
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the Catholic Church’s ritual process for calling adults to a conversion of mind and heart and preparing them for a full and active life in the Catholic Church as disciples of Jesus. The culmination of that ritual process is the celebration of the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist at the Easter Vigil.
Unlike our usual understanding of ritual that takes place at a specific moment, the RCIA is spread over a longer period. The process of becoming a mature Christian involved more than just learning about the faith of the Church. Becoming a Christian presumes a relationship with God who becomes the ground of our being. To be a Christian means that we have claimed the values of the Gospel as our own and have committed ourselves to the teaching of Jesus. The RCIA aims to transform the entire person into an individual who has truly put on Christ Jesus. Obviously, this kind of conversion takes sufficient time to mature.
For whom is the RCIA intended?
The RCIA is primarily intended for those who are unbaptized and preparing for the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist. However, the rite provides adaptations for those who are already baptized but may be preparing for a profession of faith and full communion with the Roman Catholic Church. There is also a component for children older than 7 years of age whose parents are wishing to have them baptized.
How long is the RCIA process?
Our RCIA classes meet from September to Easter, but because the process of becoming a Christian is about conversion, it is difficult to determine how long this process will take. Every person is treated as an individual with a unique history and background. Everyone grows and develops at his or her own pace.
How do I find out more about participating in the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults or learning more about the Catholic Faith?
Even if the current RCIA classes are in session, we are taking names for when the next classes begin. There is an initial meeting where you share your faith story and a basic gathering of information takes place.
To start the Inquiry Phase
Please contact:
Ileen Grebner, Director of Faith Formation
309-383-4460
igrebner@stmarylourdes.org