Have you been to Our Lady of Grace for Mass?
Have you been away from the Church and now returned/are thinking about returning, and want to know more?
Have you been a Catholic all your life, but never celebrated all of the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist)?
Have you joined us from a different faith background and would like to find out more about the Catholic Church?
If any of the above questions apply to you, we would love to help you in your journey! Or, if you know of anyone who could answer YES to any of the above questions, perhaps you should extend an invitation to them!
For more information, please contact our Director of Religious Education, Christine Flack, at 215-757-5530 or dre@olg1.org.
What is the RCIA?
"RCIA" stands for the Rite of Christian Itiation of Adults. In simplest terms, the RCIA is a systematic look at the beliefs, practices, and “laws” of the Roman Catholic faith. In the RCIA, sessions are held to explain the Church’s teachings and practices, such as the celebration of the Sacraments. The RCIA is often likened to a “journey of faith”. Participants of all backgrounds journey together to discover more about the Catholic faith. Think of it as you would a journey within a foreign country – you would see and learn more on a guided tour than if you simply went and wandered on your own.
Who can participate?
The RCIA is ideal for:
Why would I participate in the RCIA?
As the title suggests, the process of the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults was created by the early Church to prepare adults for reception (initiation) as full members of the Catholic faith. While that is still one of the purposes that the RCIA fulfills, the intent to join the Church is not required or even expected of participants. People are welcome to come simply to know more, and perhaps feel more comfortable attending Mass with friends, spouses, children, or others who are Catholic.
What do you do at RCIA sessions?
RCIA sessions are a mix of prayer, faith sharing, Scripture reading and discussion, instruction, and dialogue. Here are just some of the activities you can expect to experience in various RCIA sessions:
Am I committed to anything if I participate?
Absolutely not. The RCIA should be a welcoming journey for you to take away whatever you get from it.
What if I do want to become a Catholic?
Those who decide they want to become full members of the Catholic Church use the RCIA as a preparation period. Along the way, several “Rites” are celebrated - milestones to mark significant decision points in the faith journey. If you are interested in becoming a full member of the Catholic Church, please contact our Director of Religious Education, Christine Flack, at dre@olg1.org or (215)-757-5530.
What if I have more questions?
Questions are always welcome! You can direct your questions to: dre@olg1.org or (215)-757-5530. Or, visit the Catholics Come Home website for some more great resources and information!
Please keep our elect, Ashaley R., in your prayers as she prepares to receive the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, & Eucharist)!