RCIA
RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults is an ongoing program for unbaptized adults (catechumens) who are interested in becoming Catholic and for adults who have been baptized (candidates) and are seeking to complete the Sacraments of First Communion and Confirmation. Catechumens (unbaptized) and candidates (baptized) are welcomed into our parish community each year at the Easter Vigil. Regular sessions are held every Wednesday night in the Parish Center, Room 1.
Inquiry Classes
The first stage is called the Period of Inquiry (or the pre-catechumenate). Classes are for those in the initial stages of learning about the Catholic faith and/or those seeking more information about God and/or joining the Church. These sessions are informal and friends and spouses are welcome.
Catechumenate
The second stage is called the catechumenate. This is for catechumens (un-baptized) and candidates (baptized). The Rites of Acceptance and Welcoming marks the beginning of this time. Catechesis (learning about the Word of God through the Lectionary, the Bible and the beliefs of the Church) is studied during this time. Each person's journey is unique and each person is allowed to progress at the rate the individual feels comfortable with. Around the end of November (First Sunday of Advent) you will be expected to make a decision to go on to becoming Catholic or leaving the program.
Period of Enlightenment and Purification
This third stage is celebrated with the Rite of Election and Call to Continuing Conversion at the beginning of Lent and lasts for 40 days. It is a time of discernment and purification and preparation for a new life as a Catholic. The Elect, as they are now called, have a time of intense preparation and prayer along with the celebrations of three public scrutinizes and a retreat in which to prepare for the their Sacraments of Initiation at Easter Vigil.
Mystagogia
The fourth and final stage is a period of exploring the experiences of the fully initiated Christians through the Sacraments, continuing catechesis and parish celebration. It is a time when the neophyte is welcomed into all aspects of the parish life and its service. At the end of this time the new Christian begins the rest of their life-long journey in full communion with the Church.
There are also classes for children RCIA (C) or RCIC for those youngsters who may not have completed their catechism and sacraments. For more information call the office at (530) 795-2230 to speak to the following coordinators:
RCIA (A) adults contact Erin Hasbrook - RCIA Coordinator - rcia@sa-sm.org / (530) 304-4882
RCIA (C) adapted for children contact Dawn Barrera
FORMS
RCIA Registration Form
FAQs
Becoming Catholic
Inquiry Classes
The first stage is called the Period of Inquiry (or the pre-catechumenate). Classes are for those in the initial stages of learning about the Catholic faith and/or those seeking more information about God and/or joining the Church. These sessions are informal and friends and spouses are welcome.
Catechumenate
The second stage is called the catechumenate. This is for catechumens (un-baptized) and candidates (baptized). The Rites of Acceptance and Welcoming marks the beginning of this time. Catechesis (learning about the Word of God through the Lectionary, the Bible and the beliefs of the Church) is studied during this time. Each person's journey is unique and each person is allowed to progress at the rate the individual feels comfortable with. Around the end of November (First Sunday of Advent) you will be expected to make a decision to go on to becoming Catholic or leaving the program.
Period of Enlightenment and Purification
This third stage is celebrated with the Rite of Election and Call to Continuing Conversion at the beginning of Lent and lasts for 40 days. It is a time of discernment and purification and preparation for a new life as a Catholic. The Elect, as they are now called, have a time of intense preparation and prayer along with the celebrations of three public scrutinizes and a retreat in which to prepare for the their Sacraments of Initiation at Easter Vigil.
Mystagogia
The fourth and final stage is a period of exploring the experiences of the fully initiated Christians through the Sacraments, continuing catechesis and parish celebration. It is a time when the neophyte is welcomed into all aspects of the parish life and its service. At the end of this time the new Christian begins the rest of their life-long journey in full communion with the Church.
There are also classes for children RCIA (C) or RCIC for those youngsters who may not have completed their catechism and sacraments. For more information call the office at (530) 795-2230 to speak to the following coordinators:
RCIA (A) adults contact Erin Hasbrook - RCIA Coordinator - rcia@sa-sm.org / (530) 304-4882
RCIA (C) adapted for children contact Dawn Barrera
FORMS
RCIA Registration Form
FAQs
Becoming Catholic
RESOURCES - KNOWING AND LIVING THE FAITH