CSC in 1-2-3: RCIA

1. What is RCIA and who is it for? RCIA stands for the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults. It is a process of conversion for adults who seek to be baptized or who want to join the Catholic Church from another tradition or who want to be confirmed.

2. Is RCIA a new process? Actually, RCIA is not new. In the earliest centuries of the Church, Christians invited adults to join the community of faith. Those who accepted the invitation became candidates for the Sacraments of initiation (Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist) and entered into a step by step process toward full membership in the church. This process, called the catechumenate, included a lengthy period of formation, instruction and testing, lasting one to three years or more.

3. What happens during RCIA? Each week we look at the Sunday readings and a particular topic of faith. The catechists open up the Word and the lesson through their own faith stories, explanation, discussion and prayer. One of the most important elements of the process is the welcoming, prayer and witness of the community. This happens through the RCIA team members and the community gathered for Eucharist on Sunday and informally in between sessions.

Written by Sr. Linda Straub, Campus Minister

Congratulations to our 2011-2012 RCIA Candidates! Our thoughts are prayers are with you as you prepare for Baptism and Confirmation this Easter.