RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults)
Menu
What is RCIA?
Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults is a process for preparing and welcoming new members into the Catholic Church. It is a journey of faith involving both personal discovery of one’s relationship with God and a communal journey made with the priest, catechists, sponsors and the parish community.
All are welcome and free to journey as long as they wish or to leave at any time.
- Begins with a series of enquiry evenings.
- Moves into a period of formation through gospel sharing and introduction to Church teaching.
- Leads to reception in the Church
- It is followed by a time of reflection on ways of living out the commitment in daily life.
How long does it take?
It usually takes place over several months.
Begins from around the month of August or September every year.
Continues every week until the following Easter with reception into the Catholic Church.
Concludes six weeks later at the Feast of Pentecost.
What are the Sacraments of Initiation?
They are the Sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation, received by non-baptised people as they become members of the Catholic Church. The baptism of most other Christian Churches is recognised by the Catholic Church. Those baptised persons coming into the Catholic Church are welcomed into full communion withthe Catholic Church and receive the Sacraments of Eucharist and Confirmation.
Who is involved?
The RCIA Team. This is a group of practicing Catholics who co-ordinate and have the roles of Catechists, sponsors and hospitality in the formation process.
- The Parish Priest. He is usually a member of the RCIA Team and is available for spiritual and personal advice if requested.
- The Sponsors. They are practicing Catholics who offer support and encouragement to those participating in the RCIA process.
- The Catechists. These are practicing Catholics who facilitate group meetings by sharing faith and directing group discussions.
I wish to Join the RCIA. Where do I begin and what to do?
Please download and fill out the RCIA form and email it to the parish office or click on the Enquire button below and fill out and submit the form. A friendly staff or a priest will be in touch with you soon.
