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THE RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS: The Journey to Full Communion with the Catholic Church
For those who already have converted to the Catholic faith, Easter Vigil is not just the crown of the liturgical year, but it is also a much-celebrated anniversary of their entry into full communion with the Church.
For David Love, entering the Church through the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) process nine years ago was just the beginning of his journey.
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“Once I had received my sacraments, I realized I didn’t want to leave RCIA,” he says. “I wanted to help out. Over the last few years, I have filled almost every role within the program.”
Typically, the RCIA process is completed at the Easter Vigil when the catechumens receive their sacraments to become full members of the Catholic faith. These sacraments include Baptism, First Holy Communion, and Confirmation. If the person entering the Church has already been baptized, they are referred to as a candidate, their previous baptism is recognized, and they will also receive their First Reconciliation.
The RCIA process begins with a person expressing their interest in learning more about the Catholic faith. This is the beginning of an inquiry period. It is through this inquiry period that the person decides if they are ready to move forward as a catechumen. This period of being a catechumen is when they attend classes to learn more about the Church, Her history, and Her beliefs. Catechumens choose or are paired with a sponsor who is already Catholic to help them on this journey.
“I love seeing the light turn on for people,” David says. “I love seeing them understand things for the first time. It brings me back to when I first learned it. It is so special to help them find the truth.”
David offers encouragement to those who are going through the RCIA process or considering joining the faith.
“It’s okay to have questions,” he says. “No matter where you are in the process, it is okay. So come, ask questions and have faith.”
If you would like to learn more about the RCIA process, or to begin the process of inquiry, please contact Tim Bush in the parish office — 317-253-2193.
