Sacraments

RCIA/RCIC
RCIA 2010-11 Calendar
General Information about RCIA

The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults/Rite of Christian Initiation of Children is the name of the process by which adults and children of catechetical age are baptized or welcomed into the church. 

RCIA sessions start in the fall of each year and run until Pentecost. These sessions are held on Thursday evenings starting at 7:00 p.m. The format is as follows:

  • Prayer

  • Topic Presented

  • Social Break

  • Table Discussion

The reading materials for the program include the Scriptures as well as several handouts per week. In general, RCIA sessions are divided by periods of advancement marked by church rites.

 The Pre-Catechumenate period runs throughout the fall and is marked by an entrance rite on the first Sunday of Advent. During the Pre-Catechumenate, candidates are introduced in a very general way to most aspects of Catholic Teachings. 

The Catechumenate period is characterized by serious study and introduction to the prayer life of the Church. In particular, candidates in this stage can be seen participating in the mass and attending other prayer services. This period ends with the Rite of Election, celebrated with the Bishop at the Cathedral

The period of Enlightenment runs for the forty days of Lent and it is marked by serious reflection on the part of the candidates. This stage focusing on the Elect’s deepening awareness of their relationship with God.  This period ends with the reception of the Sacraments of Initiation at the Ester Vigil.

The final stage is the period of Mystagogia. This period of reflection and growth never fully ends. This period is marked by an awareness that all of us are called to a continued deepening of our faith and our faith lives.

RCIC sessions here at St. Pius X are geared toward the individual child’s needs. 

"By his Revelation, 'the invisible God, from the fullness of his love, addresses men as his friends, and moves among them, in order to invite and receive them into his own company.'  The adequate response to this invitation is faith."

                                                        --CCC, no. 142, citing DV, no. 2

Any Parishioners interested in joining the RCIA Team should call the Office of Religious Education.  Volunteers help with small group discussion, teachings, snacks, dismissals at Mass, the Rites, etc.  Call to find out where you could best fit in.
 
                                    Office of Religious Education   859-341-4900  Ext. 113

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