“”Jesus spoke to them again, saying, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

John 8:12

The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults

Catholicism is a way of life and becoming Catholic is a journey in faith. The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (R.C.I.A.) is a process, rooted in history, which seeks to do more than simply give interested persons information. Becoming Catholic involves entering into relationship with a community of God’s people. Our hope is that you will enjoy a deeper relationship with God as you also become acquainted with members of Our Lady of the Rosary Parish, Kenmore – Moggill and and the Catholic Church throughout the world.

This is a unique time for you. You will no doubt notice how your own life experiences and beliefs have brought you to this point as you listen to God’s invitation. At the same time, members of the parish are praying for you, attending classes with you, and sharing their own life stories as Catholics.

Who is RCIA for?

  • Unbaptised adults who might desire to become a Catholic.
  • Adults who have been baptised in another Christian church who might desire to become a Catholic.
  • Adults who have been baptised Catholic, however have not received full reception into the church through the Sacraments of Eucharist and/or Confirmation.

Step 1 – Exploring the Initial Proclamation

Pope Francis noted, “All Christian formation consists of entering more deeply into the catechesis, which is reflected in and constantly illumines, the work of catechesis, thereby enabling us to understand more fully the significance of every subject which the latter treats. It is the message capable of responding to the desire for the infinite which abides in every human heart” (Evangelii gaudium, 165).

St. Paul gives us an example of the catechesis when he writes, “Christ died for our sins in accordance with the scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the scriptures” (1 Cor 15:3-4). The catechesis is the first proclamation of the gospel and is the core message of the gospel. The mystery of Christ is the central message of Christianity. It is through Christ that we come to know God the Father in the gift of the Holy Spirit.

How we explore the RCIA

At Our Lady of the Rosary Parish, we explore the catechesis by using the RCIA resource ‘At Home with God’s people’.

It is important that before the RCIA process begins, those approaching faith, have a genuine opportunity to explore questions that relate to the faith and the mission of the church. As Christians, a conversion occurs which necessitates a change. This change can be subtle or it can be profound. The RCIA allows time to consider this conversion.

What is ‘At Home with God’s People’?

The new version of ‘At Home with God’s People’ includes revised text for four chapters to include the writings of Pope Francis. The revised book is easier to read with an elegant, modern and attractive new design. A key statement from each chapter is highlighted as a ‘pull-quote’ to give the reader a quick summary of the chapter.

This book provides reflections, prayers, scripture references, discussion questions and information on a number of topics. Access this information via: http://ahwgp.com/resources/

Step 2 – Entering into the Rite of Initiation

The Rite of Christian Initiation (RCIA) is the process by which an interested person becomes a member of the Catholic Church. This is a gradual process within the parish community of the faithful. It is a spiritual journey. The RCIA, as a rite, marks the various steps on the way to full commitment within the Catholic Church. It includes five specific periods.

Each person shares their journey with a Catholic “sponsor.” This individual is a fully initiated Catholic (Baptised, Confirmed and receiving the Eucharist) who is at least 16-years-old, is actively celebrating the sacraments and a member of the parish where you desire to be baptised. They will attend the RCIA sessions with you, and they will attend Mass with you each week, helping to acquaint you with our parish community. The parish will assist you when selecting a suitable sponsor.

The Period of Inquiry

This initial period allows the individual to become acquainted with the Catholic Church, to hear the Good News of Jesus Christ and to reflect on one’s own life and the stirrings of the heart.

The Period of Catechumenate

Following the Rite of Acceptance/Welcoming (first stage of commitment) this period is for deeper individual conversion and for more in-depth orientation to the Catholic faith.

The Period of Purification and Enlightenment

Beginning with the Rite of Election this is a period of more intense spiritual preparation and is intended to purify the mind and heart, and to deepen their knowledge of and relationship to Christ.

The Paschal Triduum with the Sacraments of Initiation

Celebration of the death and resurrection of Christ in the Paschal Triduum at Easter offers the appropriate time for the reception of the individual into the Church with the sacraments of Baptism, First Eucharist, and Confirmation.

The Period of Mystagogy

After the completion of their Christian initiation in the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist the individual enters a period of deepening of their understanding of the mysteries of these sacraments, and to enhance their understanding of their new faith and incorporation into the full life of the Christian community.