We tend to think that the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (“RCIA”) is just for those adults who wish to become Catholic. But, as the Church teaches us, the RCIA can also provide a model for how we engage in all our catechetical and evangelistic endeavors:
“’The model for all catechesis is the baptismal catechumenate … This catechumenal formation should inspire the other forms of catechesis in both their objectives and in their dynamism.” (General Directory for Catechesis, no. 59)
What is it about the RCIA that makes it such a rich source of inspiration?
The Important Elements of the RCIA
When the RCIA is functioning as it is fully intended, it is:
- a gradual unfolding of the mysteries of the faith, punctuated by moments of grace;
- an organic and systematic presentation of the faith;
- a liturgical, pastoral, and catechetical experience;
- intimately involving the parish community; and
- deeply kerygmatic (involving the proclamation of the Gospel) and Christocentric (having Christ at the center).
The RCIA is for making disciples. When our parish initiatives for formation and evangelization are modeled after the RCIA, then they have the potential to make disciples, too. This means that a good first step towards renewing your parish is renewing your RCIA process.
How We Can Help
We are happy to work with you to make the RCIA a powerful encounter with Jesus that makes disciples and initiates renewal in your parish. Here are some of the ways that we can do this:
- RCIA Team Training: We can conduct half-day, full-day, or multiple-day formation retreats for your RCIA team, where they will learn more about what the RCIA is and how it can be effectively implemented in a parish.
- Training on “How to Get 1-on-1” and “How to Lead a Small Group”: RCIA sessions often involve breaking into small groups to discuss what was presented. Sponsors and RCIA team members often also find themselves in important 1-on-1 conversations with candidates and catechumens. We can train you in how to perfect these encounters.
- Sponsor Training: Sponsors have a unique role to play in the lives of catechumens. We can prepare them for this role.
- Creating a Topical Calendar: If the RCIA is supposed to proceed gradually, organically, and systematically, then the topics you present and when you present them is very important. We can help you put a calendar of topics together that will allow your candidates and catechumens to get the most out of each stage of the RCIA process.
- Training on Catechetical Methodology: We can train your RCIA team on methods of teaching that will empower them to teach the faith in a dynamic way that facilitates conversion.
If you don’t see what you need on this list, please contact us! Let’s work together to create the event or experience that your team needs to succeed.
RCIA Resources
Here you will find resources and documents that will assist you with the catechetical and evangelistic aspects of Christian Initiation. For questions about the liturgies and rites of the process, see the Office for Divine Worship and Sacraments.
