R.C.I.A.
Becoming a Catholic
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is a process of study, exploration, faith-sharing, and faith formation with specific liturgical rites for seekers and inquirers. Seekers and inquirers are non-baptized adults who desire to be fully initiated into the Roman Catholic Church and/or baptized adult Christians who desire full communion in the Roman Catholic Church.
Adults or older children who have not been baptized and desire to join the Church are invited into the ancient celebration of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults. During this process, which is marked by regular ritual acts, participants are introduced to the liturgy, the teachings, and the life of the Catholic Church.
Adults or older children who were baptized in another Christian denomination prepare in a similar way for the sacraments of Confirmation and the Eucharist during their reception into the Catholic Church.
RCIA is a Journey
The Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults is a process that proceeds over weeks and months. It has several steps:
The Pre-Catechumenate is the earliest phase in the process; it is also known as the Period of Inquiry. Catechumens and Candidates acknowledge that Christ is calling them into the Church through the movement of the Holy Spirit. This is a time for seeking and reflection.
The Catechumenate is a time of learning and formation in the traditions and doctrine of the Catholic Church. This is a time for sharing stories, reading scripture, and studying the Church customs, traditions and doctrine. Participants also participate in worship services and various Church rituals.
The period of Purification and Enlightenment coincides with the Season of Lent and is a time for the immediate preparation of the Sacraments of Initiation
Mystagogy is a time of reflection and celebration after the formal reception into the Catholic Church. Mystagogia means “leading into the mystery” and it is a time to explore the deep mystery of our faith and go forth to help build the reign of God on Earth as new members of the faithful.
The RCIA is a process in which participants "undergo…conversion as they study the Gospel, profess faith in Jesus and the Catholic Church, and receive the sacraments…The RCIA process follows the ancient practice of the Church and was restored by the Second Vatican Council as the normal way adults prepare for baptism."
St. Vincent de Paul
Catholic Church
30525 8th Ave S,
Federal Way, WA 98003,
253-839-2320
MISSION
Inspired by the Holy Spirit and empowered by the Sacraments, our diverse community worships, serves and grows in the love and knowledge of Jesus.
FOCUS
To accompany one another into a year of favor, through Eucharistic revival, with openness to being made new.
IDENTITY
We are Eucharistic people who pray, serve, play, and stay together with Jesus, and one another.
VISION
We are a growing Catholic community united and passionate in deepening and sharing our relationship with Jesus Christ through justice, love, and compassion.
