BECOMING CATHOLIC / RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults)
ARE YOU CONSIDERING THE CATHOLIC FAITH?
The Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults is a formation education process that takes place within the parish community for those joining the Catholic Church. This culminates at the Easter sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist, Reconciliation and Confirmation.
Once an initial contact is made and the interest of the inquirer is clear, those who have never been baptized prepare for the catechumenate. It includes several stages marked by study, prayer and rites at Mass. The catechumens undergo a process of conversion as they study the Gospel, profess faith in Jesus and the Catholic Church, and receive the sacraments of baptism, confirmation and Holy Eucharist at the Easter Vigil.
Those who are previously baptized in another Christian tradition prepare as prospective candidates. This initiation process prepares the candidate to enter into full communion with the Catholic Church by celebrating the sacraments of Confirmation and Holy Eucharist.
If you would like to join the Catholic Church or be a part of the RCIA Team contact the parish office at (515) 993-4482.
Rite of Acceptance and Welcoming for RCIA
The Second Sunday of Advent we will be celebrating the Rite of Acceptance and Welcoming at the 8:30 am Mass.
The Rite of Welcoming is an ancient Rite that recognizes the Inquirer's decision to begin the process of becoming a full member of the Catholic Church. It is the 1st Rite of the RCIA process and the 1st public ritual. In this Rite, a Change of Identity takes place: those previously known as Inquirers, become Candidtates! At this Rite, the priest and the entire church welcome the Candidates at the Church doors. After the homily, Father will call the candidates up and anoint them, have their senses blessed and then give them a cross as a sign of recognition. We, the Church, are called and asked to support them with love, concern and prayers.