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Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA)

"I have come that you might have life, life to the fullness . . . " (John 10:10)

T. S. Eliot wrote: “We had the experience but missed the meaning.” Do you find that your very experience of Life -- of relationships, work, play -- is asking you some significant questions? Do you have a sense that Life is larger than your immediate experience? Are you searching for something “more” in your life? For a church? Or a people of faith? Or a God?

The R.C.I.A. (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) is the process by which people are formed in the Catholic way of life. It is for those who have never been baptized, those who have been baptized in other faiths and now feel that God is calling them to continue their journey in another way, and for those who are already Catholics but have never completed the sacraments of initiation (either needing Eucharist or Confirmation).

The R.C.I.A. process is designed to facilitate each person's unique experience of God's love and call in their lives. Christian initiation (RCIA) normally begins each Fall with a series of weekly sessions devoted to addressing and responding to your questions and concerns. Those interested in learning more about Catholicism meet with a small group of parishioners to reflect on both the weekly Scripture readings and various topics of faith. The process involves reflection and sharing, prayer and celebration. Initiation normally takes place in the Spring at the Easter Vigil, with a few weeks’ follow-up thereafter.

An important part of this journey of faith involves sponsors, parishioners who accompany those interested in exploring Catholicism. These men and women are present -- not so much to give "answers" -- but to share their own life's journey and their experience of our faith tradition. It is the responsibility of the entire Christian community to be signs of God's presence. Each new face (and also those we know well) offers us a renewed invitation to see and know this God who is forever with us, not least in the mystery of one another. You will find in this process, and in this community at Holy Cross, a wonderful opportunity to appreciate and strengthen your own growth in faith.

For more information, please call or e-mail Mary Ann Spina, Pastoral Associate at 945.0430.


Why Become A Catholic? | Who is RCIA for?
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