RCIA –DID YOU KNOW?

Who is RCIA for?  Briefly, for  1) persons in need of Baptism.  2) Persons baptized in another Christian tradition who desire to become Catholic.  3) Persons baptized Catholic in need of First Communion and/or Confirmation.   How did a person become Catholic before RCIA?  At most parishes, the person was given individual instruction by the parish priest or someone delegated by him.  Why the change?  There were a number of limitations to private instruction.  The priest was the only member of the Catholic community with whom the inquirer had contact, apart from any family & friends.  Private instruction did not ensure that the inquirer had a lived experience of the Catholic faith, or was exposed to authentic Christian charity as lived in a parish Community.  How long is the RCIA process?  The time varies, but is rarely shorter than 6 months.  The Church greatly respects the time each person needs for conversion and decision.  The RCIA text gives guides for discerning this on a case-by-case basis.  “Strive eagerly for the greatest spiritual gifts.” (1Cor 12:31)  If you know of any person who has shared an interest or curiosity about the Catholic faith and would like to learn more by participating in the RCIA program that is beginning this September, please call the Parish Office at 570-326-1544.