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THE RITES
The Rites experienced within the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults are designed to create a heightened sense of awareness of the importance of each step in the process of converting to Catholicism. Each of the Rites within the RCIA present a level of exploration of the Catholic Faith - how long you experience each Rite Level is dependent upon you - therefore do not expect that your experience will be likened unto getting a educational degree.
While intellectual capacities vary from individual to individual, and obviously some degree of literacy is required, the main requirement which your soul will answer to you, is the matter of faith. Sometimes in this world of fast technology and pseudo intellectualism people lose sight of the beautiful simple truth, that faith in God is not about being a rocket scientist - it is about having a heart.
THE RITES OF RCIA
In the first stage, we, the faithful, must go out and do as Jesus asked of us and evangelize. This stage is also sometimes referred to the precatechumenate. The Gospels and scriptures are explored along with the basic tenants of faith as handed down through the centuries of the Catholic Church. There is no set time to this period and we encourage you to keep your mind open and open to discussing everything you are considering - through dialogue we achieve greater understanding.
In the second stage, called the Rite of Acceptance into the order of the Catechumenate - the candidates express and the Church accepts their intention to answer the call of God to follow Christ. (Keep in mind there is a differentiation in the process between those Baptized Christian (Non-Catholic) and those who have never been Baptized) Those who have been baptized are referred to as candidates, unbaptized as Catechumens. Alienated Catholics are not eligible to participate in this program.
In the next stage of RCIA is the liturgical Rite of the Enrollment of Names, usually held on the first Sunday of Lent. At this point, the Church formally ratifies the catechumens readiness for the sacraments of initiation and the catechumens, now the elect, express the will to receive these sacraments.
In the next step we enter into the Period of Purification and Enlightenment, this occurs during the Lenten season in preparation for the initiation at the Easter Vigil. It is a time intensely centered upon conversion marked by the celebration of the Scrutinies, presentations and of the preparations for Holy Saturday.
On Holy Saturday the elect are initiated through Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist. Holy Saturday, Easter Vigil, by far, is the most powerful experience for all Catholics. It marks the End of the Tridium and the joyful anticipation of the light of the risen Christ.
The final, and lifelong phase of the RCIA, is the Post-Baptismal Catechesis or Mystagogy. In this period the newly initiated enjoy full participation in the Catholic community participating in the Sunday Eucharist. The first period of Mystagogy last from the Second Sunday of Easter through to Pentecost. The second period for the year following Pentecost. During this period it is the goal of Catechists to deepen the understanding of the Pascal Mystery through reflection on the Sunday liturgies and encourage reflection upon the Rites they have recently experienced.
Contemplation is a key element of faith. Deepening one's understanding is achieved through expression of what the meaning of Baptism and the Eucharist mean to the neophyte. The habit of contemplation is central to maintaining faith and maintaining an ongoing Dialogue with our Lord. Faith, without works, is hollow, so this is also a time to formulate and understand within oneself how one can carry on the mission of Christ's Good News of the Kingdom of God.
It is important to note, that every step of the way, Sponsors, Godparents, and catechists must maintain contact with the newly formed Catholic members so that they flourish within the body of Christ.
MAY THE ENTHUSIASM OF SPIRIT LEAP CONTINUALLY WITHIN YOU AND HELP YOU LIVE A VIBRANT LIFE MAY YOU BE MINDFUL OF THE ETERNAL FLAME WITHIN YOU MAY YOU RELY UPON THIS SOURCE OF LOVE TO BE YOUR CONSTANT ALLY AND STEADY GUIDE. PEACE BE WITH YOU!
©2009 St. Mary of Mount Virgin Church.org Prepared by Digital Pro Quo LLC
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