Embedded Files
Session One
Welcome!
We are blessed to have you begin this journey of faith. As is common in the RCIA process, expect new faces over the next several weeks. The Spirit moves each of us in many different ways and beginning the RCIA is no exception.
What is the RCIA?
RCIA, which stands for Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, is a process through which non-baptized adults enter the Catholic Church. It can also include those who have been baptized in other Christian denominations who seek to enter into full communion with the Catholic Church. Often baptized Catholics who have not received other sacraments or who know little about the faith or have not practiced their faith for some time participate in the RCIA as a means to complete their initiation into the Church. The process includes study, prayer and rites at Mass. The RCIA follows the ancient practice of the Church and was restored by the Second Vatican Council as the normal way adults prepare for baptism.
What happens at an RCIA Session?
During our time together we will explore the Scriptures, the basics of the Catholic Faith and the Teachings of the Church. Each session will include review and discussion of the video or live presenation. The atmosphere is relaxed and provides ample opportunity for dialog and questions. Sponsors or family members are most welcome and encouraged to attend the Zoom meetings with you or in person when that option becomes safe.
What is the difference between
a Catechumen and a Candidate?
Interested non-baptized persons become catechumens, and catechumens become full members of the Catholic Church by means of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist, which are referred to as the Sacraments of Initiation.
Those adults who were baptized as members of another Christian community or those adults who were baptized as infants as Roman Catholic but did not receive further catechetical formation, nor, consequently, the Sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist are also included in the RCIA process. They are referred to as Candidates. A Candidate for the Roman Catholic Sacrament of Confirmation and a Candidate preparing to receive Holy Communion in the Catholic Church.
RCIA Sponsor/ Godparent
Becoming Catholic is a process, a journey of faith. Each person on the journey is supported and welcomed by the whole assembly. One member of the Catholic faith, who is already baptized and confirmed, assumes the role of sponsor. The role of the sponsor is to be a support and presence to the catechumen or candidate. The sponsor accompanies the catechumen or candidate during the various Rites and to the Sunday Liturgy. The sponsor is also a listener and mentor and shares with their catechumen or candidate their love for the faith. Being a sponsor is very rewarding and many sponsors experience the role as a time of personal growth and renewal in faith. For those who are not baptized, the sponsor is often referred to as a godparent (as is common for infant baptism). While unbaptized persons only need to have one godparent they can choose to have two godparents if desired.
What is expected of me?
We realize that family commitments and employment responsibilities are your first priority. Our hope is that you can participate in the RCIA program as fully as your schedule will allow. If you are unable to attend a class or one of the special masses advance notice is always appreciated.
Attend Formation Sessions (Zoom or in person once restrictions are eased.)
View Symbolon video before each session (about 30 minutes in lenght)
Attendance of the Rite of Election at St. Paul Cathedral – Date and time to be announced
Attendance of Easter Vigil, Saturday, April 3, 2021 @ 8:00 pm
Attendance highly encouraged at: (pending restrictions due to Covid-19)
Sunday Mass
Rite of Welcoming – January 10, 2021 at the 10:00 am Mass at Saint Kilian Church
Rite of Sending – TBA - 10:00 am Mass at Saint Kilian Church followed by the Rite of Election at Saint Paul Cathedral that afternoon.
Scrutinies – March 7, March 14, and March 21, 2021 during the 10:00 am Mass at Saint Kilian Church
Rehearsal for the Easter Vigil – March 28, 2021 at 2 pm at Saint Kilian Church
Watch "The Journey of Faith" on the Formed.org website - CLICK HERE. You can stop at the 23:00 minute mark of the video!
If you have not signed up for the free Formed.org account CLICK HERE for information.
If you have not already done so, complete the online information form found HERE.
Visit the page for the next session - HERE.
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