Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA)
“Life with Christ is a wonderful adventure.”
St. John Paul II
Are you thinking about becoming Christian?
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Personal Experience
Many individuals report personal spiritual experiences or feelings of a divine presence that lead them to believe in Jesus. These experiences can include a sense of peace, transformation, or answered prayers.
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Historical Evidence
Some people find the historical evidence for Jesus' life, death, and resurrection compelling. This includes the New Testament accounts, corroborating historical references, and the growth and impact of early Christianity.
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Philosophical and Theological Reasons
The teachings of Jesus, such as love, forgiveness, and compassion, resonate with many individuals' ethical and moral values. Additionally, theological concepts like salvation, grace, and eternal life provide answers to existential questions.
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Miracles and Healing
Reports of miracles and healings in Jesus' name can influence belief. Stories from the New Testament, as well as modern testimonies of miraculous events, often play a significant role.
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Community and Tradition
Being part of a religious community or tradition that values belief in Jesus can be a strong influence. Family, friends, and societal norms often play a role in an individual's faith journey.
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Scriptural Conviction
Many people come to believe in Jesus through reading the Bible. The teachings and narratives of the Gospels and other New Testament writings can inspire faith.
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Philosophical and Existential Search
For some, the search for meaning, purpose, and answers to life's big questions leads them to Christianity and belief in Jesus.
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Testimonies and Witnesses
Hearing the personal stories and testimonies of others who have found faith in Jesus can be a powerful motivator. These stories often highlight transformation and hope.
Each individual's journey to belief is unique, and often involves a combination of these and other factors.
Why Catholicism?
The Catholic faith is a branch of Christianity that traces its origins to the teachings of Jesus Christ and his apostles. It is characterized by a rich theological tradition, a structured liturgy, and a comprehensive system of beliefs and practices.
Here are some key elements:
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1. Beliefs
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The Trinity
Catholics believe in one God in three persons: the Father, the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit.
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The Incarnation
Jesus Christ, the Son of God, became human to save humanity from sin.
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Salvation
Catholics believe that salvation is achieved through faith in Jesus Christ, the sacraments, and living a life according to the teachings of the Church.
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The Bible and Tradition
The Catholic faith is based on the Holy Scriptures (the Bible) and Sacred Tradition, which includes the teachings and practices passed down through the ages.
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2. Sacraments
Catholics practice seven sacraments, which are considered channels of God's grace:
I. Baptism
Is considered the first and most fundamental sacrament. It is seen as necessary for salvation and initiation into the Christian community.
Here are the key aspects of Catholic baptism:
Purpose
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Forgiveness of Sins
Baptism washes away original sin and any personal sins committed prior to baptism.
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New Life in Christ
It marks the beginning of a new life as a member of the Body of Christ, the Church.
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Indwelling of the Holy Spirit
The baptized person receives the Holy Spirit and becomes a temple of the Spirit.
Rite of Baptism: The ritual of baptism involves several important elements
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Water
The essential rite involves either pouring water over the head of the person being baptized or immersing them in water while the minister says, "I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit."
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Anointing with Chrism
The person is anointed with holy oil called chrism, symbolizing the gift of the Holy Spirit.
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White Garment
The baptized person is often clothed in a white garment, symbolizing purity and new life.
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Baptismal Candle
A candle is lit from the Easter candle and given to the baptized person, symbolizing the light of Christ.
Ministers
The ordinary ministers of baptism are bishops, priests, and deacons. In cases of necessity, such as imminent danger of death, any person, even a non-baptized one, can validly baptize someone if they follow the correct form and intention.
Recipients
Baptism can be administered to:
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Infants
The Catholic Church practices infant baptism, based on the belief that children are born with original sin and need baptism to enter into the Christian community.
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Adults
Adults who have not been previously baptized can receive the sacrament through the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA), which includes a period of instruction, prayer, and preparation.
Sponsors / Godparents
Baptismal candidates, whether infants or adults, typically have sponsors or godparents who support them in their faith journey. Godparents must be practicing Catholics who can help guide the baptized person in their Christian life.
Effects
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Incorporation into the Church
The baptized person becomes a member of the Catholic Church.
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Sanctifying Grace
Baptism imparts sanctifying grace, making the person holy and pleasing to God.
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Theological Virtues
The virtues of faith, hope, and charity are infused into the soul.
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Indelible Mark
Baptism imprints a spiritual mark or character on the soul, signifying the person’s permanent belonging to Christ. Therefore, it cannot be repeated.
Catholic baptism is a profound and significant sacrament that initiates individuals into the Christian faith, cleanses them from sin, and marks the beginning of their spiritual journey within the Church.
II. Confirmation
​Known as a sacrament of initiation. It deepens and strengthens the grace received at baptism and is considered vital for a fully initiated Christian life. Here are the key aspects of Catholic Confirmation:
Purpose
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Strengthening of Faith
Confirmation strengthens the individual's faith and fortifies them to live as a witness to Christ.
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Reception of the Holy Spirit
It bestows the gifts of the Holy Spirit, which are wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord.
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Completion of Baptismal Grace
It completes the grace received at baptism and establishes the confirmed more firmly in their relationship with Christ and the Church.
Rite of Confirmation: The ritual of baptism involves several important elements
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Laying on of Hands
The bishop (or priest) extends his hands over the confirmands, invoking the Holy Spirit.
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Anointing with Chrism
The bishop anoints the forehead of the confirmand with chrism (holy oil), saying, "Be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit." This anointing signifies the indelible spiritual mark or character imparted by the sacrament.
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Sign of Peace
The bishop then offers the confirmand a sign of peace, signifying unity and peace within the Church.
Ministers
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Bishops
The ordinary minister of Confirmation is the bishop, symbolizing the connection to the apostolic origins of the Church. In certain circumstances, a priest may administer Confirmation, especially in the case of adult converts or when granted special permission.
Recipients
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Baptized Individuals
Only those who have been baptized can receive Confirmation. It is typically administered to adolescents (around the age of discretion, usually between 12-17 years old) but can also be given to adults who are entering the Church.
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Preparation
Candidates usually undergo a period of catechesis (religious instruction) to understand the significance of the sacrament and to prepare spiritually.
Sponsors / Godparents
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Role of Sponsors
Each confirmand usually has a sponsor, similar to a godparent, who supports and guides them in their faith journey. Sponsors must be practicing Catholics who have received the sacraments of initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist)
Effects
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Increase in Sanctifying Grace
The sacrament increases the sanctifying grace already present from Baptism.
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Gifts of the Holy Spirit
The confirmed receive an increase in the gifts of the Holy Spirit, which help them live out their Christian faith more fully.
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Indelible Spiritual Mark
Confirmation imprints a spiritual mark or character on the soul, signifying that the person is sealed with the Holy Spirit. This mark is indelible and, like Baptism, cannot be repeated.
Significance
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Christian Maturity
Confirmation is often seen as a sign of Christian maturity, empowering the individual to actively participate in the life and mission of the Church.
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Witness to Christ
Confirmed individuals are called to be witnesses to Christ in their words and actions, spreading and defending the faith.
Catholic Confirmation is a significant milestone in the spiritual journey of a believer, enriching their faith and enabling them to live out their Christian vocation more fully.
III. Eucharist (Holy Communion)
​The Eucharist, also known as Holy Communion, is one of the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church and is considered the "source and summit" of the Christian life. It commemorates Jesus Christ's Last Supper with his disciples and involves the sacramental consumption of bread and wine, which Catholics believe become the Body and Blood of Christ. Here are the key aspects of the Eucharist:
Biblical Basis
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Last Supper
The institution of the Eucharist is recorded in the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew 26:26-29, Mark 14:22-25, Luke 22:14-20) and in 1 Corinthians 11:23-26. During the Last Supper, Jesus took bread and wine, blessed them, and gave them to his disciples, saying, "This is my body... This is my blood.“
Doctrine of Transubstantiation
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Real Presence
Catholics believe in the doctrine of transubstantiation, which teaches that during the consecration at Mass, the bread and wine truly become the Body and Blood of Christ, even though their appearances remain unchanged.
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Mystery of Faith
This change is considered a profound mystery of faith, affirmed by Jesus’ words and the teaching authority of the Church.
Celebration of the Eucharist
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Mass
The Eucharist is celebrated during the Mass, the central act of Catholic worship. The Mass consists of two main parts: the Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Eucharist.
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Liturgy of the Word
Includes readings from Scripture, a homily, the Nicene Creed, and prayers of the faithful.
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Liturgy of the Eucharist
Includes the presentation of gifts, the Eucharistic Prayer, the consecration, the Lord's Prayer, the Sign of Peace, and the reception of Communion.
Rite of Communion
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Reception
Catholics who are in a state of grace (free from mortal sin) are invited to receive Holy Communion. They may receive the consecrated host on the tongue or in the hand, and in some cases, they may also receive from the chalice.
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Fasting
Catholics are required to fast from food and drink (except water and medicine) for at least one hour before receiving Communion.
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Frequency
While Catholics are obliged to receive Communion at least once a year during the Easter season, they are encouraged to receive it more frequently, even daily.
Effects of the Eucharist
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Union with Christ
The Eucharist strengthens the communicant’s union with Christ, allowing them to share more deeply in his divine life.
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Spiritual Nourishment
It provides spiritual nourishment, helping the faithful grow in grace and virtue.
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Unity with the Church
It fosters unity among the members of the Church, as all who partake in the Eucharist are united in the Body of Christ.
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Forgiveness of Venial Sins
Reception of the Eucharist forgives venial sins and helps protect against mortal sin.
Adoration and Devotion
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Adoration
Outside of Mass, Catholics may also worship the Eucharist in the form of adoration, where the consecrated host is displayed in a monstrance for prayer and meditation.
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Eucharistic Processions
Public processions with the Eucharist, especially on the feast of Corpus Christi, are a form of devotion that highlights the significance of Christ’s presence in the sacrament.
The Eucharist is central to Catholic worship and spirituality, embodying the core of the faith by making present the sacrificial love of Christ and uniting believers with him and each other.
IV. Reconciliation (Confession)​
Reconciliation, also known as Confession or Penance, is one of the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church. It is a sacrament of healing through which Catholics receive forgiveness for sins committed after baptism and are reconciled with God and the Church. Here are the key aspects of Reconciliation:
Biblical Basis
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Institution by Christ
The sacrament is grounded in the words of Jesus to his apostles:
"Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained" (John 20:22-23). Other scriptural references include James 5:16 and 2 Corinthians 5:18-20.
Components of the Sacrament
i. Contrition
Sincere sorrow for having sinned, along with the intention to avoid sin in the future. Contrition can be perfect (out of love for God) or imperfect (out of fear of punishment).
ii. Confession
The verbal disclosure of sins to a priest. Catholics are required to confess all mortal sins (grave sins) in kind and number. While venial sins (lesser sins) are not strictly required to be confessed, doing so is encouraged for spiritual growth.
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iii. Absolution
The priest, acting in the person of Christ (in persona Christi), grants absolution, forgiving the sins of the penitent. The formula of absolution includes the essential words, "I absolve you from your sins in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.“
iv. Penance
Acts of penance or satisfaction, assigned by the priest, which the penitent performs to express repentance and make amends. Penance might include prayers, fasting, or acts of charity.
Effects of the Sacrament
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Forgiveness of Sins
Reconciliation provides forgiveness of all confessed sins, restoring the state of grace lost by mortal sin.
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Reconciliation with God and the Church
It repairs the relationship with God and reintegrates the penitent into the ecclesial community.
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Spiritual Strength
The sacrament grants grace to resist future temptations and fosters spiritual growth and conversion.
Celebration of the Sacrament
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Individual Confession
The most common form, where the penitent confesses sins privately to a priest in a confessional or reconciliation room.
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Communal Reconciliation Services
These may include a communal preparation and individual confession and absolution, typically held during Advent and Lent.
Frequency and Obligation
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Frequency
Catholics are encouraged to receive the sacrament regularly, with a common practice being monthly or whenever in a state of mortal sin. The Church requires that Catholics confess mortal sins at least once a year.
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Easter Duty
Catholics are obliged to receive Communion at least once during the Easter season, which presupposes prior confession if they are in a state of mortal sin.
Role of the Priest
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Minister of Mercy
The priest, as the minister of the sacrament, offers guidance, encouragement, and penance, acting in the person of Christ to forgive sins.
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Seal of Confession
Priests are bound by the seal of confession, meaning they cannot reveal anything disclosed during the sacrament under any circumstances.
Reconciliation is a vital sacrament for spiritual healing and renewal, emphasizing God's mercy and the call to ongoing conversion and holiness in the Christian life.
V. Anointing of the Sick
​The Anointing of the Sick is one of the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church, specifically a sacrament of healing. It is intended for those who are seriously ill, elderly, or in danger of death due to sickness or old age. Here are the key aspects of the Anointing of the Sick:
Biblical Basis
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Scriptural Foundation
The sacrament is rooted in the teachings of Jesus and the early Church. Key scriptural references include James 5:14-15, which encourages the sick to call for the elders of the Church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. Additionally, Mark 6:13 records the apostles anointing the sick and healing them.
Purpose and Effects
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Spiritual Healing
The primary purpose is spiritual healing, including the forgiveness of sins. It provides comfort, peace, and courage to endure the sufferings of illness or old age.
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Physical Healing
While not guaranteed, the sacrament can also bring about physical healing if it is God's will.
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Preparation for Passing
For those nearing death, the sacrament prepares the soul for the final journey and entry into eternal life, often accompanied by the reception of the Eucharist as Viaticum (food for the journey).
Rite of the Anointing
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Prayers and Scripture Readings
The rite typically includes prayers, readings from Scripture, and intercessions for the sick person.
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Laying on of Hands
The priest lays his hands on the head of the sick person, invoking the Holy Spirit.
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Anointing with Oil
The priest anoints the forehead and hands of the sick person with the Oil of the Sick, saying, "Through this holy anointing may the Lord in his love and mercy help you with the grace of the Holy Spirit. Amen. May the Lord who frees you from sin save you and raise you up. Amen.“
Minister of the Sacrament
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Priests and Bishops
Only priests and bishops can validly administer the Anointing of the Sick, as it involves the forgiveness of sins.
Recipients
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Serious Illness or Old Age
The sacrament is intended for those who are seriously ill or elderly. It is not restricted to those at the point of death, but anyone facing serious health challenges.
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Before Surgery
It is also appropriate for those undergoing significant surgery.
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Repeated Anointing
A person can receive the sacrament more than once, especially if their condition worsens or they face new serious health issues.
Relation to Other Sacraments
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Confession
If the sick person is able, the sacrament is often preceded by Confession to ensure they are in a state of grace.
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Eucharist
The Anointing of the Sick can be accompanied by the reception of the Eucharist, particularly as Viaticum for those nearing death.
Community and Support
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Family and Parish Involvement
The sacrament is often celebrated with the presence and support of family members and, if possible, members of the parish community.
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Pastoral Care
The Church encourages ongoing pastoral care for the sick, including regular visits, prayers, and the other sacraments.
The Anointing of the Sick is a profound expression of God's love and mercy, offering spiritual comfort and strength to those who are suffering and reminding them of Christ's compassionate presence in their lives.
VI. Holy Orders
​Holy Orders is one of the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church and is the means by which the Church ordains its ministers—bishops, priests, and deacons. It is a sacrament of apostolic ministry and confers a sacred character that is indelible. Here are the key aspects of Holy Orders:
Biblical Basis
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Institution by Christ
The sacrament of Holy Orders is rooted in the actions and commands of Jesus, particularly when he chose the twelve apostles and gave them authority to teach, sanctify, and govern in his name (e.g., Matthew 16:18- 19, Matthew 28:19-20, John 20:21-23).
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Apostolic Succession
The practice of ordaining bishops, priests, and deacons continues the apostolic ministry established by Christ, as seen in passages like Acts 6:1-6 (the selection of the first deacons) and 1 Timothy 3:1-13 and Titus 1:5-9 (qualifications for bishops and deacons).
Degrees of Holy Orders
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Bishop (Episcopate)
Bishops receive the fullness of the sacrament of Holy Orders. They are successors to the apostles and have the authority to teach, govern, and sanctify the faithful in their dioceses. Bishops can ordain other bishops, priests, and deacons.
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Priest (Presbyterate)
Priests are co-workers with their bishops and are primarily responsible for celebrating the sacraments, especially the Eucharist, and providing pastoral care to the faithful. They cannot ordain others but can perform most other sacramental functions.
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Deacon (Diaconate)
Deacons are ordained for service to the Church and assist bishops and priests in liturgical roles, charitable works, and administrative tasks.
There are two types of deacons:
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Transitional deacons (Who are on the path to becoming priests)
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Permanent deacons (Who may be married or single and remain in the diaconate)
Rite of Ordination
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Laying on of Hands
The essential rite involves the laying on of hands by the bishop and the consecratory prayer, invoking the Holy Spirit and conferring the specific office.
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Anointing
In the ordination of bishops and priests, the hands of the ordained are anointed with chrism oil, symbolizing their consecration for sacred duties.
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Investiture
The newly ordained are vested with the liturgical garments appropriate to their office (e.g., a stole and chasuble for priests, a dalmatic for deacons).
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Handing Over of Instruments
The newly ordained may receive the instruments of their ministry, such as the Book of the Gospels for deacons or the chalice and paten for priests.
Effects of Holy Orders
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Indelible Character
The sacrament imprints an indelible spiritual mark, signifying the ordained person's permanent configuration to Christ and their unique role in the Church.
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Grace of the Holy Spirit
The ordained receive special graces necessary for their ministry, enabling them to serve the Church and fulfil their duties effectively.
Requirements and Formation
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Vocation
A genuine sense of calling (vocation) to the priesthood or diaconate, discerned through prayer, guidance, and the approval of Church authorities.
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Education and Formation
Extensive theological education and spiritual formation, typically in a seminary for priests and through diaconate formation programs for deacons.
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Celibacy
In the Latin Rite of the Catholic Church, bishops and priests are generally required to remain celibate. Permanent deacons may be married at the time of their ordination but may not remarry if their spouse passes away.
Role in the Church
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Teaching
Ordained ministers are entrusted with preaching the Gospel and teaching the Catholic faith.
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Sanctifying
They administer the sacraments, especially the Eucharist, Reconciliation, and Anointing of the Sick, which sanctify the faithful.
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Governing
Bishops, and to a lesser extent priests, have administrative and pastoral responsibilities, overseeing parishes and other Church institutions.
Holy Orders is central to the structure and sacramental life of the Catholic Church, ensuring the continuation of apostolic ministry and the faithful transmission of Church teaching and sacraments.
VII. Holy Matrimony (Marriage)
​Matrimony, or marriage, is a covenantal union between a man and a woman, established by God, that signifies the union of Christ and the Church. Here are the key aspects of the sacrament of Matrimony:
Biblical Basis
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Genesis 2:24
"Therefore a man leaves his father and his mother and clings to his wife, and they become one flesh.“
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Matthew 19:4-6
Jesus reaffirms the indissolubility of marriage, saying, "What therefore God has joined together, let no man put asunder.“
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Ephesians 5:25-32
St. Paul describes the relationship between husband and wife as mirroring the relationship between Christ and the Church.
Nature and Purpose
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Covenant
Marriage is a covenant, a sacred agreement that mirrors God's covenant with his people. It is more than a contract; it is a lifelong commitment.
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Unity and Indissolubility
The marital bond is unbreakable and exclusive, reflecting the permanent and faithful love of God.
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Procreation and Education of Children
One of the primary purposes of marriage is the procreation and upbringing of children within a loving and stable family environment.
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Mutual Support
Marriage provides mutual support and sanctification for the spouses, helping them grow in holiness.
Celebration of the Sacrament
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Liturgy
The Rite of Marriage is typically celebrated within a Mass, though it can also be celebrated outside of Mass. It includes readings from Scripture, the exchange of vows, the blessing and exchange of rings, and the nuptial blessing.
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Consent
The essential element of the sacrament is the free and mutual consent of the man and woman. They must intend to marry for life, be faithful, and be open to children.
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Witnesses
The presence of a priest or deacon and at least two other witnesses is required to ensure the public nature of the marriage.
Effects of the Sacrament
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Grace
The sacrament bestows special graces upon the spouses to help them live out their vocation to marriage. These graces strengthen their love, support their fidelity, and help them bear the responsibilities of family life.
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Bond
The sacrament establishes a perpetual and exclusive bond between the spouses, reflecting Christ’s unbreakable bond with the Church.
Preparation and Requirements
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Pre-Marriage Preparation
Couples are usually required to participate in marriage preparation programs offered by the Church, which cover topics such as communication, finances, sexuality, and spirituality.
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Canonical Form
Catholics are required to marry according to the canonical form of the Church unless dispensed. This includes marrying in the presence of a priest or deacon and witnesses.
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Impediments
There are certain impediments to marriage, such as close kinship or a prior valid marriage. These must be resolved before a couple can marry in the Church.
Annulments
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Declaration of Nullity
The Church may declare a marriage null if it finds that a valid marriage never existed from the start due to a lack of consent, psychological incapacity, or other impediments. This is not the same as a divorce, which claims to dissolve a valid marriage.
Role of the Family
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Domestic Church
The family is considered the "domestic church," where spouses and children live out their faith daily. The sacrament of Matrimony helps create a nurturing environment where Christian virtues and values are taught and practiced.
Matrimony is a profound and sacred commitment that calls spouses to a lifetime of faithful love, mutual support, and openness to life, reflecting the love of Christ for his Church.
3. The Church
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Hierarchy
The Catholic Church has a hierarchical structure with the Pope at its head, followed by cardinals, bishops, priests, and deacons.
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Magisterium
The Church's teaching authority, which interprets and preserves the teachings of Christ and the apostles.
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Universal Church
The Catholic Church sees itself as the one true Church founded by Jesus Christ, with a mission to spread the Gospel and serve humanity.
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4. Liturgy and Worship
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Mass
The central act of worship in the Catholic faith is the Mass, which includes the Liturgy of the Word (readings from the Bible) and the Liturgy of the Eucharist (the celebration of Holy Communion).
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Prayer
Catholics engage in various forms of prayer, including the Rosary, the Liturgy of the Hours, and personal devotion.
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5. Moral Teachings
The Catholic Church has a comprehensive set of moral teachings based on the Ten Commandments, the teachings of Jesus, and natural law. These teachings cover issues such as the sanctity of life, the dignity of the human person, social justice, and the importance of family.
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6. Saints and Mary
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Saints
Catholics venerate saints, who are seen as exemplary models of faith and intercessors before God.
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Mary
Mary, the mother of Jesus, holds a special place in Catholic devotion and theology, often referred to as the Blessed Virgin Mary. She is honoured with various titles and devotions, including the belief in her Immaculate Conception and Assumption.
The Catholic faith is a global religion with over a billion adherents, encompassing a diverse range of cultures and traditions united by common beliefs and practices.
What is Rite of Christian Initiation?
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is a process developed by the Catholic Church for prospective converts to Catholicism who are above the age of infant baptism. Here is an overview of the RCIA process:
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1. Inquiry (Precatechumenate)
This is the initial stage where individuals express interest in learning more about the Catholic faith. It’s an informal period where questions are asked, and basic teachings are shared.
2. Rite of Acceptance into the Order of Catechumens
This marks the transition from the inquiry phase to the formal instruction phase. During this rite, candidates express their intention to proceed with their faith journey and the Church accepts them as catechumens.
3. Catechumenate
This is a period of formal instruction in the Catholic faith, often lasting several months to a few years. Catechumens participate in regular classes and engage with the teachings of the Church, its practices, and community life
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4. Rite of Election or Enrolment of Names
Typically occurring at the beginning of Lent, this rite involves the catechumens’ names being entered into the Book of the Elect. The Church formally recognizes them as elect, or chosen, to receive the sacraments of initiation.
5. Purification and Enlightenment
Coinciding with Lent, this period involves deeper spiritual preparation. It includes rites such as scrutinies (rites for self-searching and repentance) and presentations of the Creed and the Lord’s Prayer.
6. Sacraments of Initiation
At the Easter Vigil, catechumens receive the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist, fully initiating them into the Catholic Church.
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7. Mystagogy
This final period of post-baptismal catechesis extends through the Easter season. Newly initiated members, now called neophytes, reflect on their experiences, deepen their understanding of the sacraments, and integrate more fully into the parish community.
The RCIA process is communal and involves the entire parish community, which supports and welcomes new members into the faith. It's designed to be a transformative journey that encompasses not just intellectual understanding but also spiritual growth and personal conversion.
What is the age group?
Normally these classes would be for any adult. Those has already completed secondary schooling.
How long the classes continue before Baptism?
The Glasses will continue for approximately 12 months. However more is required for Baptism than fast attending the classes. The process towards baptism one Of conversion, a change Of Knowledge about God and the Catholic Church can help in this conversion process but more is required than just knowledge.
How often will the classes be? What is the duration of each class? Where are the classes held?
The classes will be held weakly and usually on a weekend morning. These classes will be at the Church, This period during which the weekly classes are held in the church is call the, "Pre-catechumenate." The approximate time for each session will be one and half hours.
Do I need some knowledge of the Catholic faith before come?
NO. The object of the "Pre-catechumenate" is to introduce you to the Bible and the Church of Jesus Christ. It is during the Pre-catechumenate that the conversion process, a change of heart, first begins, It is the time when first hearing about Jesus Christ there begins a desire to follow Him.
How long does the pre-catechumenate continue?
The Pre-catechumenate will continue for at least 8 weeks, although for some it may be longer, At the end of this time if you wish to continue and become a member of the church, than there is a special ceremony at which you are welcomed by whole community and you express your desire to be one with them. With this ceremony the "Pre-catechumenate" ends and the time of the "Catechumenate" begins.
How long does the Catechumenate continue?
As a you are considered to be a member of the Church and as such you have certain rights. If a catechumenate wishes to marry then they can be married according to the ceremony of the Catholic Church, If a catechumen dies: they are buried with the full ceremonies of the Catholic Church.
The catechumenate ends when you are fully received into the Church by receiving the Sacrament of Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist.
What happens during the Catechumenate?
During the catechumenate, every Catechumen will have a Sponsor. As a mother or father holds onto their child and helps them take their first steps towards walking: so a sponsor holds onto you and helps you make your first steps in your journey of Faith. You may know someone who is willing to be your Sponsor. If not, the parish community will help you choose a Sponsor. Together with your Sponsor, you will meet each week during the catechumenate with a small group of other catechumens and their sponsors for the classes in the church. The teacher of these weekly classes is the Catechist.
Who are the Catechists?
The Catechist are members our parish. They are selected and trained by the Parish to present the discussion topics for the meeting and to lead the group discussion.
Is the Catechumenate only a time for attending classes?
The Catechumenate is a very special time for spiritual growth. It is a time during which that first conversion, change of heart, which began with the Pre-Catechumenate comes to maturity. Just as a seeding when planted must be regularly watered, fertilized and receive the warmth of the sun if it is to grow into a mature flower and bloom, so too with beginning of your Faith.
During the Catechumenate you will experience the necessity for prayer. You will test yourself to see if you are capable of living the type of life to which Christ calls you through the Church. You will ask yourself whether or not you wish to live this life. The Catechumenate a very special time of formation which leads you to desire to be a full member of the Catholic Church and so receive the Sacraments Initiation into the Church; Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist.
What happens after I find that I am not ready for this after all the instruction?
It is important to remember that it is God who first calls you to the Catholic Church. Faith is his gift to you. He leads each one of us through a process of conversion. It is a process which you cannot hurry or force. You must trust in Him, be patient and await his call.
Is there any special time to receive the Sacrament of Initiation?
Yes, The usual time that Catechumens receive these sacraments is at Easter. In preparation receiving them the church gets aside for her catechumens time of Lent.
At the beginning of Lent, the names of those catechumens are to prepare themselves is announced to the community and those elected are presented to the community in a special ceremony. The Rite of Election.
Each Sunday during Lent the Catechumens are again presented to the community. Who pray for them that God purify them to receive fruitfully the Sacrament of Initiation. Ceremonies of Purification.
Does the process ends at Easter?
There is a special time which the Church also sets aside for her catechumens between Easter Sunday and Pentecost. This is a time for reflection on the Journey they have travelled and the Sacrament which they have received, It is a grace filled time for them to reflect on God personal love for them and so deepen their own love for Him.
The whole process of becoming Catholic is not private affair between you and God. it is a community concern. All of the community are involved in your conversion to becoming a member of the People of God.