Rite of Christian Initiation for adults (RCIA)

St. Bernadette offers classes and prayerful discussions about the Catholic faith on Wednesday evenings, from 7:00 to 8:30 pm.  Known as the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA), this series is open to any older teen or adult who is questioning whether he or she might want to become a Catholic or return to the Catholic faith. New inquirers are always welcome.

RCIA does not follow a school year schedule or any other rigid calendar.

A person can begin at any time throughout the year and can progress at his/her own rate.

For each individual, there is always a period of curiosity and exploration, called the precatechumenate. That is followed by a period of discovering and learning about what it really means to be a Catholic Christian, the catechumenate. At some point, it is hoped that the person experiences the love of God in a special way, through the teachings, rituals, and works of the Church. That person might then be ready for baptism and acceptance into the Church.  Those older than age seven, who have never been baptized, are usually fully initiated into the Church (baptized, confirmed, and offered their first Eucharist) at the Easter Vigil. The preparation can take more than a year. Persons who have been baptized in another Christian tradition and wish to be in full communion with the Roman Catholic Church are prepared in a similar way, though preparation can often take less time.

Adults who have left the Catholic Church and wish to return baptized Catholics who wish to complete their Sacraments of Initiation (Confirmation and/or Eucharist), and baptized Catholics who have had little or no religious education are also invited to join the RCIA group. Each will be prepared in a way that respects his/her individual needs, to the best of our ability, while conforming to the Church's expectations.

Contact: Mike Kleshock, Director of Faith Formation, 513-753-5566, x105

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