Rite of Christian Initation of Adults

The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the process by which non-Catholic people enter the Roman Catholic Church. At Our Lady of Grace Parish we have a team who facilitates this process. Non-Catholics begin with a period of 'inquiry' that allows them to explore the Catholic faith and begin to discern if they truly want to become Catholic.

After the 'Rite of Welcome' individuals are noted as cathechumens or candidates. 

1. Catechumens - If an individual has never been baptized.
2. Candidates - If an individual has been baptized.

The catechumens and candidates will then meet on a regular basis with the team for faith sharing and to learn more about Catholicism. This period of time is called the 'catechumenate.'

Typically, the first Sunday of Lent is reserved for the presence of the catechumens and candidates at Blessed Sacrament Cathedral in Greensburg for the Rite of Election. At this time they are greeted by Bishop Lawrence E. Brandt and are 'elected' or chosen to become Catholic at the Easter Vigil.

Both catechumens and candidates are brought into the church at the Easter Vigil. Catechumens will receive the sacrament of baptism and candidates will make a profession of faith. Both groups will then receive the sacraments of confirmation and holy Eucharist.

Following Easter, there is a period called 'Mystagogia' where the neophytes (new members) will explore how becoming Catholic has personally changed them or brought them new understandings and a closer relationship to God.

Please contact Hollie Uccellini at the parish office if you are interested in RCIA or have any questions.