Are you curious about the Catholic Faith?
If any of these reasons apply, RCIA might be exactly what you’re looking for!
You’re marrying a Catholic. Sharing and practicing your faith together is a great foundation for married life.
You’re already married to a Catholic and your kids are being raised Catholic. It’s natural to want to feel a closer bond by sharing in the sacraments with family.
Your children are learning about the Catholic faith. You’d like to learn more about this faith tradition, still unsure if you’d like to become Catholic.
You’ve lived in a “Catholic world” all your life, so people assume you are already Catholic. You’d like to find out if you are closer than you think in mind and heart.
You don’t know much about Catholicism, but a friend or neighbor has inspired you to learn more. With no strings attached, this is a wonderful way to check things out.
You have experienced personal loss or family struggles. You are seeking ways to deepen your spiritual life by exploring the Catholic faith tradition.
You don’t know why, but you feel something urging you to the Catholic Church. It’s probably the Holy Spirit.
Whether you are simply curious to learn more about the Catholic faith or seriously considering joining the Catholic Church, we are here to accompany you on that journey. To become a full member of the Catholic Church, individuals receive the three Sacraments of Initiation – Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist.
Individuals are prepared for these Sacraments through the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA). The RCIA is an educational and spiritual formation process in which those new to the Catholic faith are instructed and guided throughout the year. These new comers then receive the Sacraments of Initiation during the Easter celebration.
Who is RCIA for?
The RCIA is for:
Unbaptized persons (known as catechumens)
Adults Baptized in another Christian faith, who wish to become Catholic (known as candidates)
Baptized Catholics who wish to receive First Communion and/or Confirmation (also referred to as candidates).
RCIA at Old Town Parishes ICSJ and St. Michael in Old Town
RCIA occurs every year from September to May, and meets on a weekly basis for prayer, discussion, and community building. RCIA is led by a team of faithful parishioners who volunteer their time to help instruct and guide candidates and catechumens.
RCIA focuses on discernment and conversion. We strive to help each individual learn about God and the Catholic faith so that they can discern the voice of God.
Usually, candidates and catechumens read a short text prior to each weekly session. A team member leads the group in discussion and prayer to unpack the evening’s lesson. Designed to help individuals grow closer to God, these weekly sessions allow participants to explore and build upon their existing faith.
In the spirit of Renew My Church, the parishes of ICSJ and St. Michael in Old Town are collaborating on their RCIA program to better serve those interested in becoming Catholic.
RCIA meets on Tuesday evenings, from 6:30-8:00pm at the Immaculate Conception Parish Center. We welcome visitors to share in our weekly sessions.
For Those Who Are Unsure or Questioning
People come to the RCIA process with a variety of feelings. Some individuals come to sessions ready to be Baptized right then and there. Others, may be hesitant. And still, others want to ask as many questions as possible before making the decision to become Catholic.
For that reason, we emphasize that the RCIA process is a journey of discernment. We are here to help you along the way. If you are unsure if RCIA is a good fit for you, please know that we welcome those who are still questioning and exploring. If, along the way, you decide that it is not right for you, it’s okay – that is part of discernment.
If you have questions or would like to learn more about RCIA, please contact Kevin O’Connell, Sacramental Coordinator by email or at 312-787-7174, ext. 2.