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Adults wishing to become Catholics: Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (R.C.I.A.)

The Christian initiation of adults is a marvellous opportunity for any parish. It is a complete SHARING OF FAITH.

When an adult wants to be initiated into the Christian faith, a group has to be formed in a parish to help this person make their journey of faith.

It is a PUBLIC JOURNEY, i.e. all the parishioners are aware that a person/people are preparing to become members of their church.

The journey of a catechumen (one who has never been baptised), takes its place from the needs of the person and the requirements of the RCIA process.

What is this journey like?










R.C.I.A. is:-






Outline:















Contact
Parishes who have enquirers for Initiation or Reception should contact Fr Dermot Nestor (Tel 01 8408926) at the beginning of the person’s journey for the appropriate registration form, and, if needs be, for information regarding resources for accompanying the person.

Some important considerations which needs to be clarified before RCIA process begins:
Developing Faith
• It is a journey whereby the person becomes like us in the way we worship.
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Our sense of discipleship is deepened as we make the journey with the person.
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The R.C.I.A. gives us the road map.
• This programme is not just a transfer of knowledge. It is about faith.
• It is not an academic programme. It is a way of life.
• It is about learning the language, customs, ways and values of a true Christian.
• It is an apprenticeship of love to a new way of life.
• a process that takes time
• person centred
• takes place around the Church table rather than alone in the library
• one becomes a Christian by living with Christians.
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Journey with a small group. During this period the person only stays as far as the readings at Mass. Then they are led out to join the R.C.I.A. Group in the parish.
• Acceptance into Order of Catechumenate - Ceremony takes place publicly
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Period of Catechumenate - Reflecting with the Group on the Gospel - after a Sunday Mass.
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Election of enrolment of names (This takes place in the pro-cathedral on the 1st Sunday of Lent. It is the only thing that happens at a Diocesan level. All else is at parish level.
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Purification and enlightenment (During Lent). (On the 3rd, 4th and 5th Sunday of Lent ‘scrutinies’ take place, i.e. presentation of the Creed and the Our Father.)
• Sacraments of Initiation (at the Easter Vigil) - Baptism, Confirmation and Communion. The parish priest has permission to administer the Sacrament of Confirmation at the Easter Vigil.
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Mystagogy (Reflection on the mysteries that have happened).
• Martial Status may in some instances not permit Initiation or Reception. Early clarification is vital.
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Unbaptised Adult. It is never envisaged that a priest baptises an adult and subsequently seeks delegation to confirm. Adults should receive the three Sacraments of Initiation in one ceremony.
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Baptised Adult. It is important to establish all the facts regarding ones baptism. Contact Fr.Nestor if in doubt.
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Minors. If the candidate is under eighteen years of age, the parents or guardians should be informed.
If you or a member of your family is ill and would like a visit from a Priest  please contact
the Sacristy 8400547 or Parish Office 8407277