Adult Faith Formation

 'Go and make disciples of all nations'. ... Jesus is calling you to be a disciple with a mission!
     -Homily of His Holiness Pope Francis, Waterfront of Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro, XXVIII World Youth Day
 

RCIA - Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults

Parishes welcome new members into the Catholic Church through a process of education, faith sharing, and rituals known as the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA).  This process includes several stages marked by prayer, study, and discussion.  Included in the process are several Rites, which take place within the context of the Mass.  The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) describes the RCIA as a process in which participants "undergo . . . conversion as they study the Gospel, profess faith in Jesus and the Catholic Church, and receive the sacraments . . . The RCIA process follows the ancient practice of the Church and was restored by the Second Vatican Council as the normal way adults prepare for baptism." 

The RCIA is structured over a series of ceremonial steps and periods of learning, and the timing of these may vary for each individual. One may take as much time as he or she needs in the initiation process before becoming ready for full initiation through the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist.  Initiation within the Church is a journey of conversion that is gradual and ongoing and suited to individual needs. It is a process rather than an educational program and this process takes place within the community of the faithful, the local Church.

RCIA: The Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) is a process designed for adults who, after hearing the mystery of Christ proclaimed, consciously and freely seek the living God and enter the way of faith and conversion as the Holy Spirit opens their hearts.  By God’s help they will be strengthened spiritually during their preparation and at the proper time will receive the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist or complete their initiation into the Catholic Church. 

The RCIA program is a collaborative effort of area parishes and involves priests and lay leaders from each parish. Parishes participating in this program include St. Kateri Tekakwitha, West Plymouth; St. Bonaventure, Manomet; St. Mary, North Plymouth; St. Peter, Plymouth Center; St. Joseph, Kingston; and Our Lady of Lourdes, Carver. Participants meet together for instructional classes but meet for Sunday worship at their home parish. For more information, contact your parish office.