“I’d like to learn more about the Catholic Faith.”
“I was raised in a non-religious family. I’d like to explore the Catholic way of life”
“I was baptized but never received First Communion:”
"I was raised Catholic but was never 'confirmed.' What is Confirmation?"
Perhaps you have heard some of these statements before. They may have been spoken by a friend, spouse, family-member or even a co-worker.
The Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) is a process through which men and women enter the Catholic Church. It includes several stages marked by study, prayer and rites at Mass. Participants are either candidates or catechumens depending on the need of one, two or three Sacraments of Initiation. That is to say that a baptized person may participate to receive Communion and Confirmation, while another candidate may be in need of only Confirmation.
The RCIA journey includes several stages marked by study, prayer, reflection upon the scriptures and rites that are held during Mass.
The most essential part of the RCIA process is an encounter with the message of Jesus Christ and allowing oneself to be transformed by His grace.
The process is voluntary. One is free to continue or discontinue at any point. Those seeking Baptism (and/or Confirmation and Holy Eucharist) usually celebrate these Sacraments of Initiation at the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday, the eve of Easter Sunday.
The instruction during the RCIA program is tailored to the needs of the participants. The schedule for meetings and content of study material is determined by the RCIA Director.
If you, or an adult that you know would like to know more about the Catholic faith, wishes to be baptized and/or desires to receive First Communion or Confirmation, we are ready to assist you. Feel free to contact the arish office at 508.754.6722 or Deacon Paul Reuter at [email protected].