Welcome to RCIA - Footsteps

“A man went out to sow his seed...And some seed fell on good soil,and when it grew it produced fruit a hundredfold.” Luke 8:5-12

Next Team meeting: August 17, 2008 at 9am at Jerry Zachars
Inquiry Meetings: July 27, 2008 at Holy Family Parish, 10:15
August 17, 2008 at Holy Family Parish, 10:15

Hospitality And Welcoming

What is the proper environment to grow an orchid? Growth occurs when there is nourishment, proper sunlight, and the rich soil conducive for that particular plant.

When people inquire about the Catholic faith, it often is the result of family encouragement or some friends who invite them to seek and ask questions.

When Joe R inquired about the Catholic Faith at Holy Family, he expected to be handed a book, attend some meetings and get confirmed. (Joe was already baptized in another Christian faith). What Joe found was a gracious community of men and women who opened their hearts and lives to him. Interested and enthusiastic speakers shared their knowledge of the faith. Sponsors, who made a yearlong commitment to mentor him and other candidates, gave their time and their personal interest. (Nourishment)

The candidates were introduced to the larger community at appropriate times during weekend liturgies. The candidates were gradually made to feel a part of something larger than themselves. (Sunlight)

Team members and sponsors in the RCIA witnessed to the love and mercy of God in their own life. This had the benefit of helping Joe see that faith is more than an intellectual acceptance of doctrinal beliefs. It is a conversion of the heart – a change in living.

When Joe heard someone sharing their experience of God’s working miracles in their life, it pointed Joe in the direction of his own inward journey. How was God speaking to him through his life history? What was the role of other people in his faith development? (Right Soil)

Ultimately growth occurs where there is encouragement and the attention of a community who loves and gives their unconditional acceptance. This is what occurs in the RCIA at Holy Family. It is a blessing for the candidates who come to inquire about the Catholic Faith. 

It is also powerful experience of God’s grace for those who minister and welcome these new Catholics. At the end of the process, it is difficult to discern the difference between the ministers on the team and the candidates being welcomed. All are brothers and sisters where Jesus’ presence is experienced in the sharing, the caring, and the service of each other.

The Initiaiton Process

The procss of initiation into the life of the church is understood as the contiuation of one's spiritual journey that began with the beginning of life itself. Thus, each person's journey with God is unique and sacred. Here at Holy Family, the process begins with the initial phase called Inquiring - a time of questioning and discussion. The second phase is the Catechumenate in which an individual enters a formal and deeper study of the Catholic Faith. The third phase is to conincide with Lent, a time to provide spiritual growth in relationship with our Lord. This culminates with the celebration of the sacraments of Initation on Holy Saturday night. The last segment of the process continues until Pentecost. During this phase an individual discuses how God is calling them to seve and live their new life in Christ - the entire process can take up to one yar. But as stated earlier, each pdrson's journey is unique and an individual's readiness for initiation is a matter for personal prayer and reflection, recognizing God's work, and the influence of the events of daily life.