R.C.I.A.

Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults

The process of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults is for anyone considering entering into full communion with the Catholic Church. Those adults who have never been baptized are known as “Catechumen”. An adaptation of the Rite is offered for those who were baptized in another faith tradition and would now like to enter into full communion with the Catholic Church, these adults are called “Candidates”. This process for both Catechumen and Candidates begins in the fall and continues through the Easter season. The reception of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist is celebrated at the Easter Vigil. This is followed by a period of reflection called Mystagogy.

The R.C.I.A. journey at St. Joseph the Worker is begins with basic Question and Answer sessions followed by more extensive catechetical sessions. After an opportunity to examine the Catholic faith, those wishing to continue are invited to participate in the

Rite of Acceptance - designed to allow participants to formally make their intentions known to the parish. At the same time, the faith community pledges to support them through prayer and sponsorship.

Continued formation in the faith, growth in relationship with the community, scripture and prayer leads up to the Rite of Election. Gathering with parishes throughout the Archdiocese, participants are formally welcomed by the (Arch)Bishop. They are encouraged to enter into a deeper exploration of their relationship with God, the teachings and practices of the Catholic Church, and God's Word.

As Catechumen and Candidates prepare for full initiation at the Easter Vigil, they spend time in personal reflection through the scrutinies (intensive prayers) and a retreat experience. On Holy Saturday, the climax of the Catechumen or Candidate's initiation takes place during the Easter Vigil, at which time the Sacraments of Initiation are celebrated. The process continues with examination of the process and an opportunity to deepen the faith experience. R.C.I.A. is a continuous process that never really ends as far as the parish community is concerned.

For more information, call Ruth Fleming, Faith Formation Director, at 763-425-9801, Ext. 230.


Adult Confirmation

Adults seeking to complete their initiation into the Catholic Church by receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation should contact Ruth Fleming, Faith Formation Director.