SAINT JEAN BAPTISTE
CATHOLIC CHURCH
Lexington Avenue at 76th Street, New York City
Becoming a Catholic
CHRISTIAN INITIATION
The Rite of Christian Initiation (or catechumenate) is for those who wish to know more about Catholicism. It is a process by which questions and issues of faith can be explored within the context of friendship and prayer. The RCIA is based on the practice of the early church as it welcomed prospective members and formed them for Gospel living as committed followers of Jesus Christ.
The RCIA is especially appropriate for those who have never been baptized, but can be adapted to inquirers from other Christian churches or to adult Catholics completing the sacraments of initiation (baptism, confirmation, and Eucharist).
The RCIA involves several stages — Inquiry, Catechumenate (candidacy), Election (during Lent, the period of 40 days leading up to Easter and the sacraments of initiation), and Mystagogy (reflection afterward).
The RCIA process describes the conversion to which candidates are called in this way: "They hear the preaching of the mystery of Christ, the Holy Spirit opens their hearts, and they freely and knowingly seek the living God and enter the path of faith and conversion. By God's help, they will be strengthened spiritually in their preparation and at the proper time they will receive the sacraments fruitfully."
The catechumenate begins in late summer, but inquiries are welcome at any time during the year. Contact Saint Jean's Director of Religious Education and Faith Formation, Mrs. Robin Drayer, at 212.472.2853, ext. 6, for more information.