R.C.I.A.

By Ken Tucker

Are you ready for a life-changing experience?  Do you want to take your relationship with God to the next level?  How about understanding the Catholic faith better?  Then it's time to get involved in RCIA!  RCIA stands for the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults.  That might sound intimidating, but it's really not.  RCIA is simply the process adults use to become full, participating members of the Catholic Church.  People who go through this process are known as catechumens if they haven't already been baptized and candidates if they have.  They spend time studying the gospel, nurturing their relationship with God, becoming familiar with Catholic teachings and practices, and professing their faith in Jesus and the Church.  All this preparation culminates atthe Easter Vigil Mass, where they receive the sacraments of initiation: Baptism, Communion, and Confirmation!

In 2015, I decided to go through the RCIA program and it completely changed my life.  Not only was I able to experience Mass in a new, beautiful way, but the program strengthened my relationship with others in the church, my family and, most importantly, God.  RCIA had such an impact on my life, that the next year I decided to give back.  I became a sponsor and helped someone else on their journey through RCIA.  If you are thinking about becoming Catholic or becoming a sponsor, please take that step and do it!  Your life will be forever changed!
-Amanda Ducharme

RCIA is a great way to deepen your faith, whether you are thinking about joining the Church or are a life-long Catholic.  This year's program has already started, but you can still join now!  RCIA meets Tuesdays from 6:30 -8:30 p.m. in the Knights of Columbus Room.  Please stop by to join in, offer your support (the RCIA team welcomes donations of snacks from ministries and individuals!), and enjoy fellowship with people excited about their faith.  If you can't stop by, please remember our catechumens, candidates, and sponsors in prayer.  If you would like more information about RCIA and how you cantake part, please contact Mandi Pitt-Reed by email at [email protected] or by phone at 615-298-1782.

- Originally published in the St. Ann 2018 Fall Newsletter