What is the RCIA?
RCIA or Journey in Faith is the programme local Catholic Churches use to help people find out more about the Church and discover what it means to be a Catholic. It can lead to becoming a full member of the Church. RCIA courses often start in the Autumn and run through till the following June.
RCIA stands for Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults and is often also called Journey in Faith. It is indeed a journey - it is a gradual process that takes pace within the community.
It is marked by different stages, with special Rites which mark entry to the next stage.
The first stage is one of initial thought and enquiry and is one where the person interested in becoming a Catholic thinks about making initial enquiries, and wants to find out more. It is a time of initial discovery and encounter with Christ, with the Church, and with other Catholics. It can be formalised by attending RCIA meetings or course sessions which, when the time is right, can lead to the next stage.
During the next stage the enquirer becomes a Catechumen or Candidate, and enters a period of more intense learning, study, formation and prayer. The Rite of Election is a special service which marks the entry into this phase. The Rite of Election is held in St Mary's Cathedral on the first Sunday in Lent and is attended by people from all over the diocese.
In 2009 the Rite of Election will take place in St Mary's Cathedral at 3pm on Sunday 1st March.
The Rite of Election, marking an important stage in formation
During Lent the catechumen or candidate goes through a final period of purifcaion and enlightenment, ready for entry at the Easter Vigil.
Information about RCIA
(All downloads open in new window)
Rites
See photos and info about the RCIA Rite of Election 2008
Resources
Summary outline for catechists(KN -Hexham and Newcastle Diocese) pdf 40k
Advanced
Excerpts from an occasional paper on RCIA (1994 KN - Hexham and Newcastle Diocese) pdf 30k
National Liturgy Office Resources
See also documents and resources on National RCIA Network