The RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults) is a process that can begin any time;
The process has four steps,
Each recognizing how God has been and continues to be at work in our lives,
Leading us to and through the process.
- Inquiry: Asking questions about the Catholic Church, Scripture, and any other questions you may have. This process begins by contacting Karin Felske. At the end of this step, there is a discernment if the process is something they want to continue. The person or group of people and their sponsor are introduced to the parish community via the Rite of Acceptance/Welcome at a weekend Mass. They state their intention to want to become a member of the Catholic Church through Baptism or complete their initiation through the Sacraments of Confirmation and/or Eucharist. The Rite of Acceptance/Welcome begins
- Catechumenate: This second step involves continuing to gather as part of the community; with members of the RCIA team the group is dismissed from Mass following the Homily to break open the Scriptures of the day. The group also gathers for topical sessions to learn more about what we believe and to answer any questions they may have. During the season of Lent, the group again comes before the parish community for the Rite of Sending; sponsors affirm their candidate is ready to recieve the sacraments, and the community pledges their continued prayers and support. The group is sent to the Bishop where he recognizes them as ready for the Easter Sacraments.
- Purification & Enlightenment: During this time, the group is prayed for in a special way as they focus on their journey and continue their preparation to receive the Sacraments.
- Mystagogy: Reflection on their experience receiving the Sacraments