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Frequently Asked Questions about RCIA and becoming Catholic:
What is RCIA? RCIA stands for Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults. It is a journey in which people are welcomed into the Catholic community and introduced to the Catholic way of life. The RCIA follows the life-long process of human development in faith formation. There are several stages involved which include inquiring about the Catholic Church, reflecting on the Scriptures and developing a sense of belonging to a faith community. There will be many opportunities to share stories, meet new friends and grow in an understanding of yourself and your faith.  Who is the RCIA for? Adults who have never been baptized in any Christian faith. Adults who were baptized in another Christian tradition and who are now thinking of becoming Catholic. Adults who were baptized as Catholics but who have not received the sacraments of Eucharist or Confirmation. Catholics who want to sponsor adults who are becoming fully initiated into the Catholic faith. When are where does RCIA meet? RCIA meets on Thursday evenings from 7 to 8:30pm beginning late September through the Easter season. The first Thursday meeting is at 6pm and will feature a potluck meal provided by former RCIA participants and staff, so we can get to know one another. Thereafter, we continue to meet Thursday evenings at the Rectory (Pastor’s residence) at 7pm, except for holidays. How long does it take to become a Catholic? The length of the process varies according to the individual. Each person is encouraged to move as the Holy Spirit guides, at her/his own pace. The minimum amount of time is usually eight months (from the beginning of RCIA through the Easter season.) When would I be received into the Church? Every year people are received into the church at the Easter Vigil, the Saturday evening before Easter. Non-baptized persons celebrate the three Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist. Those persons already baptized in another Christian Church make a Profession of Faith, are confirmed and share in the Eucharist.  Will I need a sponsor? If there is someone you know who is a practicing Catholic and would be willing to be your sponsor, please invite them. Otherwise, we will assign you someone from the St. Juan Diego community to accompany you on the journey. Sponsors are encouraged to be present at the weekly sessions starting in late September. They are required to participate in our RCIA retreat on Palm Sunday, and be part of the rites that we celebrate along the journey. How do I get started in the RCIA process? If you need more information or wish to begin RCIA this September, please contact one of the following or call the parish office at 503.644.1617. Deacon John Riherd jriherd (at) archdpdx.org Deacon Dennis Desmarais desmarais5 (at) comcast.net Fr. John Kerns frjohn (at) stjuandiego.org Mary Stevanus ms-kirk (at) comcast.net Bridget Becker bbecker (at) stjuandiego.org Where can I go to learn more about the Catholic faith? St. Juan Diego Parish Website: www.stjuandiego.org US Conference of Catholic Bishops: www.usccb.org Vatican: www.vatican.va What have other RCIA participants said about the program? “...the RCIA team leaders are very friendly. My sponsor helped me always feel welcome and helped develop my spirituality. The program provided detailed teachings on Catholicism without any pressure. I discovered that each of us has a unique perspective and relationship with Jesus while learning all the things I wanted to know and never asked about Catholicism and listening to others share their own personal testimonies.” Scott Moore 2010 “...Coming to the RCIA classes at St. Juan Diego was our first opportunity to speak face-to-face with Catholic Christians and other people making the same journey. We found a warm and friendly environment, free of criticism and open to all our questions and concerns. We made many dear friends during those classes. Our reception into the Catholic Church at Easter Vigil, 2005, was a glorious moment that we will always cherish. We are so grateful the Lord led us home to the Catholic Church and we would encourage others to make the journey. The St. Juan Diego RCIA program is a great place to start.” Corrie and Darren Cook 2005 |