The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) names the process by which individuals desiring to become members of the Catholic Church, embrace a journey of spiritual and personal formation.
This ancient Rite was re-introduced into the Catholic Church after Vatican II in 1965, when all the Bishops of the world came together in Rome to set out guidelines for the renewal of the church.
Before Vatican II those desiring to join the church were privately instructed, usually by the priest, and received in to the church privately.
The church now sees the initiation process happening in the context of a living faith community. The initiation of adults occurs best ‘through a gradual process that takes place within the community of the faithful’ and involves the whole parish.
There are many ways in which this process can happen. During the RCIA opportunities are provided so that the persons involved share Scripture, their own faith stories and prayer together. The steps or stages in the process are usually marked by a special rite (or simple ceremony) at the parish church.
For information about the RCIA in our parish contact Father Max Gow, phone 6628 3047.