VICAR
Rev. Joseph Esper
B E C O M I N G C A T H O L I C
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THE RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the process through which interested adults and older children are gradually introduced to the Roman Catholic faith and way of life.
FOR WHOM IS THE RCIA DESIGNED?
The RCIA is for three groups:
- Those who are not yet baptized. The RCIA process refers to brethren in this category as "catechumen."
- Those who were baptized into another Christian denomination under the Trinity (Father, Son and Holy Spirit) and wish to enter into full communion with the Catholic Church. The RCIA process refers to brethren in this category as "candidates."
- Baptized Catholics who were never formed in the Catholic faith and have not completed their initiation; that is, who have received neither of the sacraments of the Holy Eucharist and Confirmation.
STAGES IN THE JOURNEY
There are 4 separate stages included in the RCIA:
- Period of Evangelization & Precatechumenate
- Period of the Catechumenate
- Period of Purification and Enlightenment
- Period of the Post Baptismal Catechesis (Mystagogy)
RESTORED RITE
During the Second Vatican Council, there was a call for the reinstatement of the Catechumenate. In 1966, the provisional ritual was distributed, followed in 1969 by a second draft. In 1972, Pope Paul VI promulgated the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults.
MORE INFORMATION
When you're ready to take that first step toward RCIA- or for more information- explore our Vicariate Directory to contact a Catholic Church near you. If you're not in or around the Blue Water Vicariate, please explore our Worldwide Catholic Directory.