RCIA

Calendar


Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults

The right of Christian Initiation of Adults designed to answer the questions of adults thinking of converting to Catholicism begins with Inquiry sessions held in September. Should the adult wish to continue learning more, he or she participates in a Rite of Acceptance.

This period of inquiry is followed by the catechumenate, an intensive year of study of the Roman Catholic Faith. A sponsor, a practicing Catholic, accompanies the catechumen (one who has not been baptized a Christian) or candidate (one who is a baptized Christian) at these sessions. The sponsor prays for and with the catechumen or candidate, answers questions and is present throughout the process.

At the beginning of Lent, those catechumens and candidates who wish to be in full communion with the Roman Catholic Church participate in the Rite of Sending before leaving to be presented to the Bishop. The Bishop welcomes the catechumens and candidates in the Rite of the Elect.

The Elect continue their studies and enter into a time of reflective prayer. The Elect also participate in The Scrutinies, prayers said over them by the priest, the third, fourth, and fifth Sundays of Lent.

During Holy Week the Elect participate in a retreat or day of reflection. The Elect are brought into full communion with the Roman Catholic Church during the Easter Vigil, celebrated the Saturday evening before Easter Sunday. At this time those previously not baptized will be baptized. All will be confirmed and join the Church for the first time in Holy Communion. The newly confirmed are now called Neophytes.

The Neophytes complete the process by participating in Mystagogia, a short period of reflection, prayer, and thanksgiving for the many blessings and graces given them.

RCIT

Rite of Christian Initiation for Teens

The Rite of Christian Initiation of Teens is the process by which teenagers become members of the Roman Catholic Church. As in the process for adults, there is a period of inquiry whereby the person is introduced to the faith. This process culminates with Baptism, Confirmation & First Holy Communion at the Easter Vigil and immerses our newest members into the life of shared community here at St. Michael’s.