The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (R.C.I.A.)

What is the RCIA?

For adults today, the Church, after the Second Vatican Council, has restored the order of the Catechumenate in the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA). It outlines the steps for the formation of catechumens, bringing their conversion to the faith to a fuller maturity. It helps them respond more deeply to God’s gracious initiative in their lives and prepares them for union with the Church community. This process is meant to form them into the fullness of the Christian life and to become disciples of Jesus, their teacher. This includes an initiation into the mystery of salvation, the practice of faith, hope, and love, and other virtues in a succession of liturgical rites.

Persons baptized into another Christian church and now seeking full communion with the Catholic Church are also welcomed to participate along with catechumens in the RCIA in the process of learning about the Catholic faith and being formed in that faith. They bring to the process of preparation their prior experience of Christian life and prayer. For a baptized Christian, reception into full communion with the Catholic Church involves reception of the Sacrament of Reconciliation and then a Profession of Faith followed by the celebration of Confirmation and Eucharist.

What is the commitment?       

As each of our inquirers, catechumens, and candidates are at different places on their faith journeys, we do not have a “one size fits all” program. We work with each person individually to create a formational experience that immerses them into the life of our parish, especially the weekly celebration of the liturgy. Depending upon their exposure to the church and the life of faith, a person’s preparation may last a few weeks, a few months, or even over a year. The goal is not simply to complete requirements to receive sacraments; rather, we want to assist all inquirers, catechumens, and candidates to grow in their relationship with the living God, the Church, and become equipped to live out a life of missionary discipleship.

How do I begin the process? 

Contact Ben Caduff at [email protected], (952) 698-1724, for an Inquiry Session. At the Inquiry Session, we will discuss your faith journey in terms of where you have been, where you are currently, and where you would like to get to. From there, we will begin to develop an individualized formation process, which is a living document, i.e. open to revision as we continue to discern where the Spirit is leading you at this time.

I have questions. Who should I contact?

The RCIA process is coordinated by Ben Caduff, the parish Adult Faith Formation Coordinator. Contact Ben at [email protected] or call (952) 698-1724.