RCIA Classes Begin Sept. 3, 2024!
We welcome those who are interested in learning more about the Catholic Church or who may be thinking about becoming Catholic. The Rite of Christian Initiation (RCIA) process begins Tuesday, September 3, 7:00 - 8:30 pm in Seton Hall (the basement of the church), and continues each Tuesday night, same time and place.
Contact Dcn. Mike at mmclean@stekc.org for more information.
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is one of our Church’s most profound blessings. In the earliest centuries of the Church, those seeking to become Catholic Christians undertook a two- to three-year process of formation and conversion culminating in baptism. At Vatican II in the 1960s, that process was restored and condensed down to 9 months in most parishes. The revised RCIA includes all the stages, rites, and sacraments from our ancient tradition, and is the normative way for non-Catholic adults to join the Catholic Church.
The RCIA process is structured around weekly classes. Each class examines a particular aspect of Catholicism. We begin with the history of Catholicism, Revelation, Tradition, the Bible, the Trinity, and examine the history and meaning of each of the seven Sacraments. We explore what it means to live in Christ, to apply Christ’s teachings to modern issues, to pray and worship in community, and to serve others. We form community and are formed in community. We grow in faith and holiness and witness the power of the Holy Spirit in transformed lives. A series of Rites celebrate key moments along the RCIA journey, beginning with the Rite of Welcome during Advent; the Rite of Sending, Rite of Election, and three Scrutinies during Lent; culminating in the glorious Easter Vigil, when our already-baptized candidates and unbaptized Elect celebrate the sacraments of initiation and become full members of the Catholic Church. This is followed by a short period of post-baptismal deepening of faith.
If you are interested in learning more about the Catholic Church or may be thinking about becoming Catholic, call the parish office at 816-523-2405 or email Deacon Mike today. There won’t be any pressure to join, and you don’t have to have made any decisions.
We need sponsors in RCIA for this Autumn: Interested in being a sponsor this year? Please call Mary Beth Cary 816-333-6036 and volunteer to walk this amazing journey of faith with us!