The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA)
What is RCIA?
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the process by which people can inquire, search, and learn more about the Catholic faith. It is an experience of personal formation and spiritual growth of individuals who are interested in becoming disciples of Jesus in the Catholic tradition. This experience incorporates prayer, study, reflection, and discernment in a combination of community preparation and public rituals. It is a journey which leads many to seek full membership in the Catholic Church. For others, this journey may not lead to membership, but all are welcome to come, to ask questions, and to look more deeply at the faith.
RCIA is modeled on the initiation ritual of the ancient Christian community and was revived in the Roman Catholic Church following the Second Vatican Council in the 1960's. It is now the principal way that the Catholic community welcomes new members.
RCIA is modeled on the initiation ritual of the ancient Christian community and was revived in the Roman Catholic Church following the Second Vatican Council in the 1960's. It is now the principal way that the Catholic community welcomes new members.
Who may attend RCIA sessions?
RCIA is for any unbaptized adult who is new to the Catholic faith, or any unbaptized child over the age of 16. It is also for any adult or child who was baptized in another Christian tradition. Baptized Catholic adults seeking to receive the Sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist are also welcome.
RCIA for Children
The Rite of Christian Initiation for Children is a special program for children ages 7 to 16 who have not been baptized. The children are prepared to receive the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist. According to the rules of the Church, once a child has reached the age of 7, he/she then follows the preparation guidelines for RCIA as if he/she were an adult. This catechesis includes sacramental education and reflection on scripture. If you have a child who has reached the age of 7, is not in second grade, and would like to receive the Sacraments, please contact Jim Tokarsky at 419-668-6044, ext. 230, or by email at jimt@stpaulchurch.org.
“Go therefore, and make disciples of all nations. Baptize them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Teach them to carry out everything I have commanded.” Mt 28: 19-20
In the Gospel we hear, “ask and you will receive; seek and you shall find; knock and the door will be opened.” The people, like you, who come to inquire about the Catholic faith have been stirred by the Spirit. In response to the movement of the Spirit in their lives, they ask, seek, and knock. It is our mission to help draw them closer to God through the Church, the people of God, the Body of Christ. The task of RCIA is to help inquirers receive the Good News, to experience Christ working in their lives, and to be open to the continuous working of the Holy Spirit.
Welcome, and God bless you as you embark on this life-changing journey!
In the Gospel we hear, “ask and you will receive; seek and you shall find; knock and the door will be opened.” The people, like you, who come to inquire about the Catholic faith have been stirred by the Spirit. In response to the movement of the Spirit in their lives, they ask, seek, and knock. It is our mission to help draw them closer to God through the Church, the people of God, the Body of Christ. The task of RCIA is to help inquirers receive the Good News, to experience Christ working in their lives, and to be open to the continuous working of the Holy Spirit.
Welcome, and God bless you as you embark on this life-changing journey!
How to Get More Information
If you would like more information or have questions about the RCIA program at St. Paul Parish, please contact one of the following:
• Fr. Andrew Wellmann @ 419-668-6044, ext. 225 or @ frandrew@stpaulchurch.org
• Darlene Walker @ 419-499-4008
• Fr. Andrew Wellmann @ 419-668-6044, ext. 225 or @ frandrew@stpaulchurch.org
• Darlene Walker @ 419-499-4008
