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RCIA RCIA - Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults Prior to Vatican II the method of conversion to Catholicism was a series of instructions in the faith from the (parish) priest on a one-to-one basis. At a point decided by the priest, the candidate would be received into the church, usually in the presence of a couple of witnesses. The opportunity for meeting other parish members was distinctly limited. With the introduction of the RCIA came the essential involvement of the community in the initiation of enquirers. The sharing of faith, story and journey gives enquirers the opportunity of seeing the faith they wish to embrace in action in people’s lives. For those un-baptised and those who have had no experience of a church community, this can be a real conversion experience. At Easter, Baptism and Confirmation are celebrated within the Vigil Mass. For some
years now, the bishops have insisted that the one-to-one instruction should
not take place. This does put a greater responsibility on community members
to introduce enquirers. However, it is also a real growth experience for
all Catholics to become involved in the RCIA. The journey from Advent
to Easter is a rewarding one. For many
years now a parish-based course has been used to prepare children for
their First Communion. This has been highly successful in giving them
a new and deeper insight into the Eucharist . The added advantage of these
courses is the consistent involvement of parents and the whole community.
It is emphasised that the Eucharist is not a private matter though it
is a deeply personal event for the young persons. The minimum age for
children at the start of the course is 8 years. Candidates
for Confirmation are prepared ideally by the lay members of the community.
The candidates are normally young people who are on the threshold of adult
faith experience and need this input to reassure them that commitment
is not only possible but joyful too. Available by arrangement with the Parish Priest.
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