RCIA

RCIA > Who comes to RCIA?

Who comes to RCIA?

The RCIA process is designed for those who are hearing the Word of God for the first time in their lives, and are seeking entrance to the Church through the waters of Baptism, however it is well suited to be adapted to those who are already baptized as a Christian, and are seeking reception into full communion with the Catholic Church.   We refer to those seeking baptism as Catechumen until the Rite of Election when they become the Elect.  Those who are already baptized and seeking full communion are referred to as Candidates.  We also welcome those who have been baptized into the Catholic Church, and have received first communion, who are seeking to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation, who are referred to as Adult Confirmation Candidates.

One of the most rewarding parts of the RCIA process is the wide variety of backgrounds with which inquirers enter the process.  Some of us have just begun to feel the stirrings of the Holy Spirit, calling us to something we do not yet understand.  Others reach RCIA after a long process of searching, often seeking God for years before He leads us to this place.  Although many people fully intend to be confirmed into the Church, entering into the RCIA process is not a commitment.   We welcome all who come with a sincere heart, seeking the Lord and His will.  Sometimes the time is not right to enter into the Church, and we respect that God’s time is not always our own.   Joining the Church is like a marriage, in that it is a life long commitment, to which we would not expect someone to agree until they have had a substantial period of time to get to know all of the faith.  Just as the Bride and Groom are not committed until the wedding, so we are not committed to join the Church until the Sacraments of Initiation at Easter Vigil.