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What exactly is RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) and what should I expect?

RCIA is comprised of a series of stages of formation, each with a slightly different focus. Each is marked by a ritual celebration transitioning a person from one stage to the next.

Stage one: Inquiry
The first stage is one of inquiry and is designed for someone simply interested in learning more about the Catholic faith with no commitment to become Catholic. This period is marked by answering the questions that the “inquirer” has about faith, God and Church and its teachings. This is a time of initial discernment to see if becoming Catholic is the right step for you.

Stage two: Catechumenate
At the beginning of this stage, the parish community will celebrate with you and the other inquirers your desire to officially enter formation for initiation into the Catholic Church. This “Rite of Acceptance and Welcoming” moves the group into the first stage of formation. From this point on you attend Sunday Mass (if not already). All participants will be given a sponsor to walk with you on your journey. You will continue to reflect deeply on scripture and examine Catholic beliefs, teachings, customs, traditions, and prayer.

Stage three: Purification and Enlightenment
At the beginning of Lent (the 40 days prior to Easter), the parish community celebrates another ritual, the Rite of the Elect, which recognizes your progress of being formed in the faith. It signals your readiness to begin final preparations for receiving the sacraments. This period of formation is more reflective and prayerful.

Stage four: Reception of Sacraments and Mystagogia
At the Easter Vigil Mass, the evening before Easter Sunday, the parish community celebrates your reception into the Catholic Church. For those who never have been baptized, they will be baptized. And then the newly baptized, and those already baptized, will receive the final two sacraments of initiation, Confirmation, and Holy Communion.

After reception of the Sacraments, you will continue with the other new Catholics for a period of time called Mystagogia, a term that means to unpack the mystery. During the next six weeks of the Easter season, you will continue to discern God's movement in your life and how best God is calling you to participate in the life of His Church and the parish community.




Author Bio:
Deacon Dan Vaughn