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Adult Education |
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RCIA Questions and Answers
Perhaps you or someone you know would like to become Catholic or would just like to learn about the Catholic faith. Here at St. Teresa, we offer a program to meet those needs. The program is called RCIA. We have answered below some of the questions frequently asked about RCIA.
What does RCIA mean? The letters "RCIA" are an acronym for the "Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults". RCIA is the process used by adults who want to join the Catholic Church.
What is RCIA? RCIA is a process or journey in which adults are able to learn more about the traditions and teachings of the Catholic faith; this process is for any adult wishing to learn more about the faith and most especially for those wishing to become Catholic.
The foundation of the process is a series of Tuesday evening sessions which begin September 15, and continue through May. Teachings of the Catholic faith, scripture and tradition, prayer, community building and an immersion into the life of the parish are all components of these gatherings. A few times along the way, there are brief rites celebrated during Mass on Sunday. Although adult formation never ends, the journey of the RCIA process culminates, for those who choose it, with Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation at the Easter Vigil.
That sounds like a big commitment. Not really, the first ten weeks is a period of inquiry. This is a great time to get an overview of the Catholic faith, then you can decide if you want to continue.
What if I am already baptized in another faith? Great! We would still like for you to be part of our group. The Catholic Church recognizes Christian Baptisms. The biggest difference for you is that at the Easter you will take the sacraments of Eucharist and Confirmation only. Your baptism need not be repeated.
I am not sure if I want to become Catholic. Is RCIA still for me? Yes. No commitment is required. At certain times, you will be asked if you want to continue the journey to the sacraments. Regardless of your decision, you are welcome to continue the sessions.
What if I need to miss a session or two? This is a program for adults. If you miss a session or two, we will do what we can to help you get what you have missed. We recognize that you have a life which includes other commitments. Who is RCIA for? The full journey is obviously intended for someone who is not Catholic and is thinking about becoming Catholic. However, the sessions are open to any adult who would like to learn about the Catholic faith.
I am Catholic, but I don’t remember all the stuff I learned as a child. What about me? Welcome! Come learn as an adult. Ask those questions that you thought of years after school and add your ideas to the discussions.
What does RCIA cost? Only your time. All required materials for the sessions are provided.
Do I need to register? Please call or email Kim Sprague (reledoffice@fuse.net) at the parish office (812-656-8700) to register. Your advance registration helps us to ensure that we order enough materials for the sessions and have enough chairs in the room. If you cannot register, please come to the Get Acquainted Meeting anyhow. We will register you there.
When and where is the Get Acquainted Meeting? 7:00 PM, Tuesday September 15, 2009 St. John Room in our parish office (the building behind the Church; follow the signs)
Interested in joining us? Click here for a registration form. |
