Who can be Part of This Process?
+ Non baptized
persons.
+ Persons baptized in another Christian church and who wish to inquire into the Catholic church.
+ Persons baptized in the Catholic Church but are not familiar or instructed in its beliefs and practices.
What Does the R.C.I.A. Process Mean?
For anyone wishing to become a member of the Catholic Church, there are different steps that lead to becoming a member of this believing
community.
+ The first step in the process is called inquiry. The candidate begins to make a connection of their story and the story of Jesus and
the Church. They begin to find the Catholic tradition an experience of faith that is attractive and personally meaningful.
+ The second step in the process is called the catechumenate. This word means "one who thoroughly sounds out something". This
step begins with a formal welcome called the Rite of acceptance into the Catechumenate. During this ceremony the sign of the cross is traced on each
individual and they receive a book of the Gospels. The catechumenate is a spiritual journey to deepen our relationship with God both personally through
prayer and within the community by love of neighbor. Each candidate has a sponsor. The sponsors attend the sessions, are a source of support to the
candidates and pray for them. During the catechumenate the various teachings of our tradition are explored.
+ The third step spans the season of Lent. Lent is like
a spiritual retreat calling us to renew our hearts and recommit ourselves to God. On the First Sunday of Lent the Church reaffirms the candidate's readiness
for the Easter Sacraments of Baptism, and/or Eucharist and Confirmation. Candidates write their names in the book of the Elect. In the afternoon a
welcoming service is held with the Bishop in a church of Green Bay for all the candidates from our Diocese who will become full members of the church.
+ The fourth step is celebration of the sacraments during the Easter vigil.
How Long Does This Process Take?
There are about fifteen session between September and Easter. Sessions are usually held on the same night of the week and last about two
hours.
