|  RCIA or the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults is the way that those interested in the Catholic Church learn about the faith and join our community of disciples. The process traces its roots back to the earliest days of Christian communities, when all members shared their faith with newcomers as a way of teaching them about a new life as a follower of Christ.
The process is for . . .
- Adults never baptized who might like to become a Catholic,
- Adults baptized in another Christian Church who might like to become Catholic, or
- Adult Catholics who have not received the Sacraments of Eucharist or Confirmation.
There are various stages or "seasons"of the process:
The first stage is called the "Pre-Catechumenate". It will begin formally in September and conclude with the Rite of Welcome in early December. The group of those who are inquiring about becoming Catholic along with a group of Catholic sponsors will meet on Tuesday evenings (7-9 p.m.) in Tighe Hall for instruction, discussion, prayer and reflection about following Christ as a Catholic Christian. It is a time for the inquirer to be questioning and searching to see if Catholicism is right for them.
The next stage is called the "Catechumenate". It is marked by the Rite of Welcome which declares the inquirer’s intention to become Catholic at the Easter Vigil the Saturday before Easter. During this period the group of "catechumens" begin to worship with the community at Sunday Mass. They are then "dismissed" for further study of the Word of God. Tuesday evening meetings continue throughout the process.
The next stage is called "Purification and Enlightenment". It begins with the Rite of Election at the Cathedral on the first Saturday of Lent. At this rite the Bishop welcomes the catechumens into the Church. The six-week Lenten season is a time for everyone to deepen their discipleship. It is a time for the catechumens to examine their heart for readiness to celebrate the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist.
The final stage is called "Mystagogy" which literally means, "savoring the mystery". It is a time for new Catholics to reflect upon the mystery of their discipleship, the love of God and the experience of belonging to the faith community. This stage takes place during the Easter season, which ends on Pentecost Sunday in a celebration of the first coming of the Holy Spirit. It is the birthday of the Church!
Everyone is always welcome to come and worship with us. In fact, that’s about the best way to find out about us! If you’re interested in becoming Catholic or if you would like more information about this process at Visitation Parish please call Steve Engler at (816) 753-5155 x308 or try our Inquiry form. Thank you!
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