The Catechumenate, or more popularly known as the RCIA, is a process that offers men and women a time to experience a conversion of mind and heart.
The Catechumenate’s goal is to offer support to the men and women in their journey of faith. A journey that includes opportunities for learning about the Catholic way of life, experiencing an awakening in faith, and embracing the mystery of God’s love.
In this journey the candidates and catechumens have the support of the RCIA Team, who are companions to them during their time in the RCIA process.
During the process, you will have a Sacramental Sponsor for Baptism and Confirmation. Your Sacramental Sponsor is a lifelong companion in faith. The Catechumenate can choose a Sacramental Sponsor who is a Baptized Practicing Catholic and can either be a family member, friend, or RCIA Team member.
During the process attendance at the Sunday 10:30am Mass at Saint Andrew the Apostle is part of the program followed by a Dismissal (meeting after the Homily to discuss the Sunday Readings). If you are interested, you should enter the process in the early fall in order to receive the sacraments of Baptism, Holy Eucharist and Confirmation with the Church at the Easter Vigil. Sessions run from the end of August through Pentecost. Those entering late fall would receive the Sacraments the following year.
RCIA also meets on Tuesday evenings at 7pm in addition to the Sunday Dismissal meeting. On Tuesday, we study church teachings, the gospels, and the Catholic Faith.
The registration process begins with a one-on-one interview.
For further information, contact the Barb Sanders in the Adult Faith Formation office at (815)886-4165 x 308 ([email protected]).