| The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the process by which a person enters into full communion with the Catholic Church. This process is for catechumens (the unbaptized) and candidates (those baptized Christians from another faith tradition and those baptized Catholics who have not received all of the Sacraments of Initiation).
Sacred Heart’s year-round RCIA process provides interested volunteers with many opportunities for ministry and service.
Some of the roles one can play in RCIA are:
Inquiry facilitator: These people provide a positive welcoming presence to those seeking information about the Church and RCIA. They also answer initial questions and help prepare the inquirers for the catechumenate.
Catechumenate team member: This special ministry is at the heart of the RCIA journey of prayer and conversion. The team provides instruction in the faith and practices of the Church. This labor-intensive process is perfect for Catholics with a deep love of teaching and theology.
Dismissal facilitator: Leads the candidates and catechumens in reflecting on the scriptures after they are dismissed from Sunday Mass. This requires a minimal time commitment and is a good way to deepen one's own knowledge of the Bible.
Sponsor: Provides companionship throughout the catechumen or candidate's journey and participates in the liturgical Rites.
Purification and enlightenment team: Assists the candidates and catechumens in their Lenten spiritual preparation. This team walks with those preparing to receive the sacraments primarily from Ash Wednesday through Easter Sunday.
Mystagogia team member: Leads the catechumens and candidates (after they have received the sacraments of initiation) in reflecting on the mysteries. Helps them to become actively involved in the life of the parish.
For more information on this diverse and rewarding
ministry, contact Brigid Johnson at 584-4528.
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