The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the process through which adults are brought into the Catholic Church. The primary focus of the RCIA process is the deepening of the relationship with Christ through the sacramental life of the Church and an increased understanding of the faith and teachings of the Catholic Church.

 

A Brief History of the RCIA:

 

The RCIA has its roots in the early catecumenate of the Church. In the early Church, extensive catechesis, or formation in the faith, was required because almost all converts came from a pagan culture to which the concepts and beliefs of Christianity were foreign. As Europe became increasingly Christian, the majority of baptisms shifted from adult converts to infants, and the period of catechesis fell out of use.

 

Seeing the need for a true catechesis among adult converts, the Second Vatican Council called for a return to the model of the early Church and established the RCIA.

 

The RCIA Process:

 

Just as all people are unique, so is the journey that leads them to Christ. The RCIA process is just that, a process. It begins when the first seeds of faith are planted in the heart and the individual begins to seek God.

 

This first stage is called the Inquiry. This is the time to ask questions and find answers. Inquirers not only gain knowledge of God and of His Church, but they also begin to build their relationship with Christ, which stands at the heart of faith.

 

The period of inquiry ends with the Rite of Welcoming and Acceptance. In this rite, the inquirers publically declare their intention to continue their faith journey with the Catholic Church. The community officially welcomes them, offering their support, prayers, and guidance. From this point on the inquirers are known as candidates (if they have been baptized) or catechumens (if they have not been baptized).

 

The catecumenate period follows the Rite of Welcoming and Acceptance. During this time candidates and catechumens delve further into the faith and teachings of the Catholic Church. As their knowledge of God and His works deepens, the individual also seeks to strengthen and enrich their relationship with Christ through an increased prayer life and a striving for virtue.

 

The Rite of Election marks the end of the catecumenate period. This rite generally takes place close to the first Sunday of the season of Lent. It is conducted by the bishop, who represents the universal Church, and celebrates the call (or election) by the Holy Spirit of the candidates and catechumens to receive full initiation into the Church.

 

The Rite of Election marks the beginning of the period of enlightenment and purification. While the candidates are still known as candidates, the catechumens are now called the elect as a sign of their acceptance of God’s call to become members of the Body of Christ through baptism. This period is one of intense prayer and spiritual growth.

 

The period of enlightenment and purification culminates in the reception of the Sacraments of Initiation at the Easter Vigil. Those who haven’t been baptized, receive baptism and are filled with the life of Christ. All of the candidates and elect are Confirmed, preparing them for public service among the People of God, and they receive their first Eucharist, entering into intimate communion with Christ and with His Church.

 

After Easter is a period of mystagogy. This period last until the celebration of Pentecost. This is a time to settle into the sacramental life of the Church and connect more deeply with the community. During this time and for the next year, those who received the Sacraments of Initiation are known as neophytes. 

 

The RCIA process is a blessing and a joy for our parish. The continued conversion of the participants reminds us of our own need for constant conversion in our lives. We eagerly look forward to sharing this journey with those interested in joining us.

 

If you have any questions about joining the Catholic Church or would just like to know more about it, please contact Mary Williams at mary@blessedteresa.org or by phone at (425) 806-8096 ext 103.

 

Edited: 10/4/11