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RITES OF CATHOLIC INITIATION OF ADULTS (R.C.I.A.)
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The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the way adults come to learn about and experience the Christian life, specifically our Roman Catholic tradition, and become initiated into the life of our Church through the celebration of the Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist.
The RCIA is not something new. It is a return to the earliest traditions of our Church which took place between the second and the fifth centuries of the Christian era! The RCIA takes place step by step in the midst of the Christian community. The whole community is called to reflect upon the value of their faith, to renew their own conversion, and by their example, to lead those who are searching to be open to the presence of the Spirit in their lives.
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The RCIA begins with a period of inquiry and maturing. This is a time for hearing the first preaching of the Gospel and of prayer. The end of this period is marked by the first stage or step which is celebrated by the whole community: The Rite of Becoming A Catechumen.
The second period is called the Catechumenate. This is a time of more intense preaching and teaching of the Gospel, prayer, spiritual direction, catechesis - the handing on the specific Roman Catholic traditions and personal contact with members of the larger Christian community. This period ends with "The Rite of Election" when the catechumens are ready to respond totally to God's call of faith through the sacraments of initiation, Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist.
The third period takes place during Lent. It is a time of purification and enlightenment or illumination for a more profound spiritual preparation. Its focus and conclusion is the Easter Vigil celebration and the sacraments of initiation.
The final period takes place during the Easter Season. The newly baptized are able to deepen their experience of the sacraments and of being new members of the Christian community.
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If you are interested in being initiated into the Roman Catholic Church, please consider attending Mass at St. Jerome Parish and getting in contact with us at office@stjeromeparish.ca or our parish office.
If you would like to learn more or have any questions about getting initiated, please follow the tab below to our FAQ section.
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1. How committed to becoming Catholic do I have to be to begin the RCIA process?
You need only be interested in exploring the possibility of becoming Catholic. There is no minimum degree of commitment required simply to begin the process. We welcome you to come with your questions and to share in conversation about what it means to live the Christian life in the Catholic tradition.
2. What if I start the RCIA process and then later feel unsure and might want to step away for a time or even leave the process altogether?
Feeling unsure at times is natural. After all, moving in the direction of joining a particular faith community is a significant step. It is always a good idea to speak with one of the catechists (teachers) in the process to understand the source of your doubt. If you remain uncertain and feel that now is not the right time to explore becoming Catholic, you are always free to leave the process. If you step away from the process and later decide you want to return, you will always be welcome.
4. Who could I talk to if I want to learn more before I come to an Inquiry Session?
You may call the RCIA Coordinator, Theresa Culliton, at 905-455-4260 or e-mail her at culliton@stjeromeparish.ca.
5. How long is the process for someone who is not baptized?
The length of time varies, depending on when an individual feels ready to move from the Inquiry Period to the next period, the Catechumenate. The Catechumenate includes deeper spiritual and faith formation, prayer and reflection, and involvement with the parish community. While there is no defined length of time for an unbaptized person who is considering initiation to be a catechumen, the period generally extends for at least one year. The final period of preparation for baptism coincides with the six weeks of Lent, which precedes the celebration of Easter. The rites of initiation – the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist – are celebrated at the Easter Vigil (the night before Easter Sunday).
6. How long is the process for someone who is already baptized?
This is determined on an individual basis, which means that when baptized candidates for full communion are received into the Catholic Church will depend on their individual readiness. Unlike the rites of initiation for the unbaptized, the Rite of Reception of Baptized Candidates is not tied to a particular liturgical season or feast, so it may be celebrated any time of the year, preferably in the context of Sunday Eucharist. Generally, the process of formation ranges from a few months to several months.
7. Is the RCIA like taking a course?
No. The RCIA is a process of faith formation, catechesis (teaching of the faith), and spiritual growth. While reading/resources will be suggested and recommended, there are no requirements like one might have when taking a formal course.
8. What if I have to miss some Tuesday sessions because of family or work commitments or travel?
No worries. We understand these conflicts. We will make sure that you receive missed handouts and that one of the catechists or other facilitators can be available to you to answer questions and talk about the session that you missed. Your sponsor will also be a resource to you.
9. Do I need to find my own sponsor?
No. One of the Holy Trinity parishioners who generously responded to the call for sponsors in the RCIA process will be assigned to you. Of course, if you know a Holy Trinity parishioner whom you would like to invite to sponsor you, feel free to ask that individual to participate in the RCIA process with you.
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