What is RCIA?
RCIA is the ministry of God’s welcoming embrace symbolized by the Church’s acceptance of new members in the family of Catholic Christians. RCIA is a journey of faith that not-yet baptized persons as well as baptized persons complete with the help of a sponsor, the catechists, the discernment team, and, above all, on the strength of their own conviction. The only requirements for joining are a heart open to ongoing conversion and a desire to explore a Catholic Christian identity, by becoming one with the community.
Have you been thinking about joining the Church?
Do you feel drawn to Catholic liturgies and tradition? Would you like to deepen the meaning of your presence at Sunday’s liturgy? If you answered “yes” to any of those questions, prayerfully consider joining on the path of discovery of your true spiritual identity.
At this time, I’m still unsure of joining the Church, but I do want to learn more about Catholicism. Is there a place for me in the RCIA process?
Yes! We all learn from one another and from our journey to know God better. Please join us for the next Catholic Inquiry Session and we can discuss what path may be best for your continued journey.
What will be asked of me in this RCIA process?
Anyone seeking information about the Catholic faith is welcome to attend any of the RCIA sessions. As the process proceeds, and if you so desire to be baptized into the Catholic faith community, we encourage you to strive to attend all the sessions and other RCIA events. There are times during the RCIA process for you to explore your intentions and continue to discern God’s call.
What if I was baptized but not as a Catholic?
Most Christian baptisms are universally recognized by the Catholic Church. You are welcome to explore the Catholic faith, and as the process continues, if you so choose, you can prepare to join the Catholic faith through the RCIA process. Prayer, discernment, and reflection are part of the RCIA experience.
I have already been baptized in the Catholic faith but have not received any of the other Catholic Sacraments (Holy Communion, Confirmation, etc.). Can I still attend the sessions?
Yes, we would encourage you to attend the Inquiry session, so we can learn more about your particular faith journey. Then we can discuss what path may be best for you to complete the remaining Sacraments of Initiation (First Eucharist and Confirmation).
Is there any cost associated with RCIA?
None whatsoever.
What is expected of me?
All that is needed is a sincere desire to grow and learn. Attendance is expected at weekly meetings and at one of the selected Masses each Sunday (The 9:00am Sunday Mass is live-streamed) . In addition, there are special events throughout the process that require attendance and participation. Each member of the RCIA is encouraged to spend some time each week in prayer and to read the reflection materials received from time to time. People who feel comfortable sharing questions and reactions are encouraged to do so.
