The Rite of Christian Initiation of adults (RCIA) is a process … a journey of conversion, celebrated in steps marked by liturgical rituals in the context of the community. 

The RCIA is intended for those adults and children of catechetical age who are not baptized.  However, the RCIA may be adapted to include uncatechized adults who were baptized in another Christian Tradition and are now seeking full communion with the Catholic Church.

For more information, please call the Parish Office (248-644-5460).  We look forward to your participation.

The RCIA process is as follows:

Period of Evangelization and Precatechumenante
This is a time, of no fixed duration or structure, for inquiry and introduction to Gospel values, an opportunity for the beginnings of faith.  It is an opportunity to ask questions, share stories, and name God’s call.

First Step:  Acceptance into the Order of Catechumens
This is the liturgical rite, usually celebrated on some annual date or dates, marking the beginning of the catechumenate proper, as the candidates express and the Church accepts their intention to respond to God’s call to follow the way of Christ.

Period of the Catechumenate
This is the time, in duration corresponding to the progress of the individual, for the nurturing and growth of the catechumens’ faith and conversion to God; celebrations of the word and prayers of exorcism and blessing are meant to assist the process.  It is a time to grow in faith and conversion to God.  It is an opportunity to learn about what it means to be Catholic.

Second Step: Election or Enrollment of Names
This is the liturgical rite, usually celebrated on the First Sunday of Lent, by which the Church formally ratifies the catechumens’ readiness for the sacrament of initiation and the catechumens, now the elect, express the will tor receive these sacraments.

Period of Purification and Enlightenment
This is the time immediately preceding the elects’ initiation, usually the Lenten season preceding the celebration of this initiation at the Easter vigil; it is a time of reflection, intensely centered on conversion, marked by celebration of the scrutinies, presentations, and of the preparation rites on Holy Saturday.  It is a time to express a desire to become Catholic.  It is a Lenten opportunity to prepare for the reception of the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist).

Third Step:  Celebration of the Sacraments of Initiation
This is the liturgical rite, usually integrated into the Easter Vigil, by which the elect are initiated through Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist.

Period of Postbaptismal Catechesis or Mystagogy
This is the time, usually the Easter season, following the celebration of initiation, during which the newly initiated experience being fully a part of the Christian community by means of pertinent catechesis and particularly by participation with all the faithful in the Sunday Eucharistic celebration.  It is a time to celebrate becoming Catholic.  It is an Easter opportunity to share the excitement of the Easter event and to fully participate in the Sunday Eucharistic celebrations.

Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) 2007-2008 Schedule

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