The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the process established by the Church universal for individuals to become Catholic and receive the sacraments of initiation---Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist.  The Rite speaks of conversion as a “spiritual journey”, centered on developing a deep relationship with Jesus and his Church.  The catechumen and candidate journey through four varied stages:
                                             

        Evangelization (Inquiry)
        Catechumenate
        Purification and Enlightenment
        Mystagogy

Through each stage, they learn from thorough and authentic catechesis, experience parish life, and discern whether or not they wish to freely commit to the Liturgical and moral life of the Catholic faithful.
 
We have been graced with an exceptional team of catechists.  The area of study focuses on Christ Jesus who is the fullness of Revelation by his teaching, witness, death, and resurrection.
 
An area of growth that we will focus on this year is---apprenticing people to the Catholic way of life. “Formation must include more than instruction:  it is an apprenticeship of the entire Christian life”. (General Directory of the Catechism)  It is our objective to move this formation process in a direction that more fully encourages a living, explicit, and fruitful Profession of Faith.  In order to accomplish this, our catechumens and candidates must be thrust into the midst of parish life.  Conversion begins not when the catechumen and candidate is told about what he or she will be doing in the future, but when that telling is actually accompanied by action.  
 
We have a core of fifteen dedicated team members who walk the personal journey every week with those in formation, but we need the support of all parishioners in order for our catechumens and candidates to fully experience the action and life of the Catholic faithful. 
 
The RCIA process continues throughout the year.  The doors of Holy Rosary never close for those who wish to come and see.
 
                                                                                    Anne DeMarco, Pastoral Associate
                                                                                                                RCIA Coordinator