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RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS (RCIA)
Dear Inquirer,
I am honored to welcome you to our church community of St Raphael. This may be a time of inquiring and questioning of the Catholic faith. The RCIA is not a “sign-up” for becoming a Catholic. It is a time of no obligation during which we look at the meaning of life, the answers to eternal questions, and the truths, teachings, and practices of the Catholic Church.
RCIA Inquiry is both for those who are sure and those who wish to inquire. Your time of inquiry will be respected as each person’s faith journey and path of grace is different. Our team will lead the RCIA sessions through teaching, direction, question answering, discussion, and prayer. Our gatherings are open to all people and as different people pursue the possibility of becoming Catholic through the RCIA process, they fall into various categories as follows:
Inquirer - anyone who is in RCIA simply to check out the possibility and learn more, but is very much uncertain about making any decision.
Catechumen - An un-baptized person who has made a decision to possibly enter the Catholic Church
Candidate - A baptized Christian who has made a decision to possibly enter the Catholic Church. A candidate can also be a baptized Catholic who has never received First Communion or any religious instruction.
Catholic Adult Confirmation Candidate - These are Catholics who join the class for eight weeks only to prepare for their Confirmation
Catholics believe the journey of faith is lifelong and an ongoing process of conversion. We are all constantly being challenged to live a Christian life. For more information see the Four Stages of the RCIA link on the RCIA page of our website.
In addition, before you begin the RCIA process, I would like the opportunity to get to know you, go over the Registration Form and understand your needs as you pursue this path. RCIA Inquiry sessions are each Sunday morning from 10:30 - 12pm in room 109. We do not usually have RCIA on major holiday weekends.
Finally, I pray that the Holy Spirit may guide you and prepare your heart and mind as you continue to seek the way, the truth, and the life which is found in Jesus Christ and His church. Throughout the year, please do not hesitate to ask myself or one of our priests or volunteers for help, a listening ear, prayers, or answers regarding any aspect of the Catholic faith, a personal struggle or question, or simply for support.
Deacon Jorge Rodriguez
RCIA Director
919-865-5743
email: Deacon Jorge Rodriguez