ARCHDIOCESE OF WASHINGTON
Christian
Initiation
Coordinator
Guide
Rev. 06/06
ARCHDIOCESE OF WASHINGTON
Christian
Initiation
Coordinator
Guide
CONTENTS
provides practical advice, ideas and suggested resources to aid
T hisyou,guide
the Christian initiation coordinator, in implementing the Rite of
Christian Initiation in your parish.
I. Laying the Foundation
(1)
Determine How the Parish Will Implement the Rite
of Christian Initiation ..................................................................1-1
(2)
Involve Others in Initiation Ministry..........................................1-3
(3)
Identify and Form Potential Sponsors and Godparents..........1-5
(4)
Place Dates on Parish Calendar and Reserve Space/Rooms
for Christian Initiation Sessions, Rites, and Other Events......1-6
(5)
Request Clergy Involvement in the Christian Initiation
Process ............................................................................................1-8
(6)
Establish a Budget .........................................................................1-9
II. Precatechumenate/Inquiry Period
(7)
Evangelize and Spread the Word about Initiation....................2-1
(8)
Meet Interested Inquirers .............................................................2-3
(9)
Provide Formation for Those Who Inquire ..............................2-7
(10) Prepare for the Rite of Acceptance
and/or Rite of Welcoming.........................................................2-17
Discernment Letter/Discernment Interview ................................2-19
Liturgy Preparation for the Rite of Acceptance
and Rite of Welcoming...............................................................2-21
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Christian Initiation Coordinator Guide
III. Catechumenate/Period of Formation
(11) Form the Catechumens and Candidates
in the Christian Life.......................................................................3-1
a. Formation for the Person Who is not Baptized or the
Catholic or Other Christian who is Baptized but
Uncatechized .............................................................................3-1
b. Formation for the Baptized, Catechized Christian.......................3-7
(12) Hold Breaking Open the Word Sessions ...................................3-9
(13) Communicate with Initiates, Sponsors
and Team Members ....................................................................3-11
(14) Attend to Administrative Issues ................................................3-12
a. Check With Catechumens and Candidates Regarding the
Status of Any Previous Marriages That Need To Be
Adjudicated .............................................................................3-12
b. Remind the Pastor to Request Faculties to Confirm
Baptized Catholics...................................................................3-12
(15) Determine Catechumens’/Candidates’ Readiness to
Receive the Sacraments...............................................................3-13
y Discernment Meeting Discussion Guide......................................3-15
y Discernment Letter ....................................................................3-17
(16) Prepare for the Rite of Sending.................................................3-18
y Liturgy Preparation for the Rite of Sending ................................3-19
(17) Prepare for the Rite of Election and Call to Continuing
Conversion ...................................................................................3-21
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Contents
IV. Purification and Enlightenment
(18) Assist the Elect and Candidates to Prepare for the
Sacraments of Initiation................................................................4-1
(19) Prepare for the Penitential Rite for Candidates
and the Scrutinies for the Elect ...................................................4-7
y Liturgy Preparation for the Penitential Rite..................................4-8
y Liturgy Preparation for the Scrutinies...........................................4-9
(20) Prepare for Presentations of the Creed
and the Lord’s Prayer..................................................................4-11
y Liturgy Preparation for the Presentation of the Creed..................4-12
y Liturgy Preparation for the Presentation of the Lord’s Prayer .....4-14
(21) Prepare for the Sacrament of Reconciliation for the
Candidates ....................................................................................4-15
y Liturgy Preparation for the Sacrament of Reconciliation..............4-16
(22) Prepare for the Preparation Rites on Holy Saturday..............4-17
y Liturgy Preparation for the Preparation Rites.............................4-18
(23) Prepare for the Easter Vigil or Rite of Reception ..................4-19
y Liturgy Preparation for the Celebration at the Easter Vigil
of the Sacraments of Initiation and the Rite of Reception ................4-20
V. Mystagogy
(24) Prepare the Elements of the Mystagogy Period........................5-1
a. Meditation on the Gospel ...........................................................5-1
b. Postbaptismal Catechesis ............................................................5-2
(25) Focus on the Celebration of the Sunday Masses during
the Easter Season...........................................................................5-5
(26) Encourage Neophytes to Participate in Parish Life
and/or Community Service .........................................................5-7
(27) Help the Parish Welcome the Neophytes..................................5-8
(28) Prepare for the Sacrament of Reconciliation for the Newly
Baptized ........................................................................................5-10
(29) Celebrate and Evaluate ...............................................................5-11
(30) Stay Connected During the Neophyte Year ............................5-13
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Christian Initiation Coordinator Guide
Appendices
Appendix 1
Christian Initiation Forms ......................................................... A-1
Appendix 2
Initiation Liturgy Dates 2005-2008 ........................................A-19
Appendix 3
Valid and Invalid Baptisms......................................................A-20
Appendix 4
Creating a Baptismal Record ...................................................A-21
Appendix 5
Prayers of the Faithful for Christian Initiation.....................A-22
Appendix 6
Sample Bulletin Announcements for Christian Initiation
Inquiry Sessions.........................................................................A-23
Appendix 7
Determining an Initiate’s Status..............................................A-25
Appendix 8
How Are We Doing and How Can We Do It Better? ........A-27
Appendix 9
Guideline for Celebrating the Sacraments with Persons
with Disabilities (Excerpts)......................................................A-31
Appendix 10
The Sign of the Cross: A Prayer Service in Preparation
for the Rite of Acceptance and Rite of Welcoming.............A-36
Appendix 11
Sample Catechumenate Session Outline ...............................A-45
Appendix 12
Celebration of a Liturgy of the Word ....................................A-47
G-iv
Contents
Key to References
CIC
Code of Canon Law
GDC
General Directory for Catechesis, © 1997 United States Conference of Catholic
Bishops
JTFL
Journey to the Fullness of Life. © 2000 United States Conference of Catholic
Bishops
NS
National Statutes on the Catechumenate
(Appendix III of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, see below)
RCIA
Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults. © 1988. Published by Liturgical Press,
Liturgy Training Publications and the Catholic Book Publishing Company.
SNP
Archdiocese of Washington Sacramental Norms and Policies, 1995
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Christian Initiation Coordinator Guide
G-vi
Laying the Foundation
(1)
Determine How the Parish Will Implement the Rite of Christian
Initiation
Each of the periods of the initiation process will have a particular focus (e.g.
evangelization, catechesis, spiritual preparation), which must be fostered through
regular (i.e. weekly, monthly) formation as well as other opportunities for learning
how to live the Catholic Christian life. Those responsible for initiation ministry
(clergy, parish staff, initiation coordinator and team) will need to determine how
these periods will be implemented in your parish.
a. The Precatechumenate or Inquiry Period is to be a time of proclaiming
the Good News of salvation and introducing inquirers to the way of
Christian living through the initiation ministers’ witness, the Scriptures, and
testimonies; and of answering the inquirers’ questions. Individuals may
contact the parish at any time, which necessitates a mindset of “ongoing
inquiry.” This may take the form of regular (weekly, bi-weekly, monthly)
meetings or one-on-one meetings with a coordinator or other team member.
In any event, some form on ongoing inquiry assures that no matter when
someone contacts the parish, they will be welcomed and aided on their
journey toward initiation.
b. The Catechumenate Period is the primary time for a systematic and
complete exposition of the Catholic Faith; an apprenticeship in the life of
Christian prayer and charity. This period is also ongoing, in the sense that
there may be a catechumen who is not prepared to celebrate the sacraments
at Easter and therefore remains in the catechumenate until a future time.
c. The Period of Purification and Enlightenment normally corresponds
with Lent and is to have a retreat atmosphere, focusing on prayer and
conversion as called for in the gospels proclaimed at the Scrutinies
(purification) and the Presentations of the Creed and the Lord’s Prayer
(enlightenment.)
d. The Mystagogy Period uses the Sunday Gospels to deepen the
understanding and appreciation for the sacramental life, and the disciples’
responsibility to witness and evangelize.
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Christian Initiation Coordinator Guide
Though not technically included in the guidelines for the Rite of Christian Initiation
of Adults, the parish will also need to consider how it will serve those Catholics who
have never been confirmed.
e. Preparation For Baptized Catholics In Need Of Confirmation and
Other Baptized Christians Who Are Well-Catechized
•
Baptized Catholics: Some people who will express interest in
Christian initiation are baptized Catholics who have made their
First Confession and First Eucharist but were never confirmed.
The Christian initiation process is not technically for them, since
they have already received these sacraments. If there are several
people in this situation, consider starting a separate program to
prepare them for the sacrament of Confirmation. If they do
participate with the catechumens and candidates, they should
understand that they will not participate in many of the liturgical
rites proper to the initiation process because of their status.
Canon law states that Catholics who only need to be confirmed are
ordinarily to be confirmed by the bishop. In the Archdiocese of
Washington, this can take place in one of three ways:
(1) They can attend the Archdiocesan celebration of the
Sacrament of Confirmation on Pentecost, at which the
Cardinal presides. (Information about the date, time and
location as well as registration forms are sent to all clergy in
the Clergy Newsletter each Spring.)
(2) They can be confirmed when the Cardinal or bishop comes
to confirm the young people of the parish.
(3) You may request a bishop to confirm adults at the parish at
another time. (Contact the Chancery at 301-853-4520 for an
Episcopal Calendar Request.)
Contact the Office of Christian Initiation at 301-853-5335 for
further information about these three options.
If none of these options are possible, this group of baptized
Catholics can be confirmed at the Easter Vigil, but permission must
be requested from the Chancery for the validity of the sacrament.
(cf. SNP, p. 22) See Appendix 1, page A-12: Christian Initiation
Forms, Form RCIA-G Request for Faculties to Confirm Baptized
Catholics
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Laying the Foundation
(2) Involve Others in Initiation Ministry
a. Invite the parish to pray for and invite interested individuals (family
members, friends, co-workers) to consider participating in Christian initiation
process.
b. Assemble and train a team to assist with the many Christian initiation
responsibilities (cf. Brown-ROA, p. 13)
Communication/Publicity Team
Sponsor/Godparent Team
Provide Sponsor/Godparent Formation
Keep in Touch with Current/Potential Sponsors
Formation Team
Catechists
Small Group Discussion Leaders
Breaking Open the Word Leaders
Conducting Spiritual Direction/Interviews
Handouts
Hospitality Team
Room Set-Up
Refreshments
Prayer/Liturgy Team
Leaders for Prayer/Music
Preparing for the Liturgical Rites
Intercessor Coordinator/Prayer Companion for each Inquirer
Include intercessions at Sunday/daily Mass for initiates
Event Planning Team
Field Trips
Outreach Activities
Social Events
Teams for Specific Periods
Precatechumenate
Purification and Enlightenment
Mystagogy
c. Invite other parish groups to collaborate in the initiation process
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Christian Initiation Coordinator Guide
Altar/Holy Name Societies—Hosting receptions, sewing baptismal
garments
Bible Study Groups
Evangelization Core Team
Finance Council
Parish Council
Prayer Groups
Small Christian Communities—A source of sponsors and a place for
neophytes to connect.
Welcome Committee
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Laying the Foundation
(3)
Identify and Form Potential Sponsors and Godparents
“Sponsors are persons who have known and assisted the candidates and stand as
witnesses to the candidate’s moral character, faith, and intention.” (RCIA, n. 10)
“It is the responsibility of godparents to show the candidates how to practice the
Gospel in personal and social life, to sustain the candidates in moments of hesitancy
and anxiety, to bear witness, and to guide the candidates’ progress in the baptismal
life.” (RCIA, n. 11)
These individuals have the responsibility to help incorporate catechumens and
candidates into the parish, to witness the Christian life to them, and to teach them
how to pray.
Sponsors and godparents are often the most important link in helping inquirers learn
how to live a Catholic life. Identifying parishioners who could serve as sponsors and
godparents is an ongoing process.
Create a “Sponsor Information Packet” and/or offer a sponsor/godparent
formation seminar so that when you ask someone to consider this ministry, they can
find out what would be expected of them. By asking throughout the year and
offering a resource and/or seminar to potential sponsors/godparents, you can
establish a pool of individuals who you can call upon as inquirers enter the process.
Since many sponsors become godparents for the catechumens and candidates, it is
recommended that they meet the canonical requirements for godparents (cf. CIC
893). Namely, godparents must:
be confirmed and practicing Catholics
be at least 16 years of age
not be the father nor the mother of the catechumen or candidate.
Often, an inquirer will want their spouse or fiancé(e) to be their sponsor and/or
godparent. While canon law does not prohibit this arrangement, it is often good to
assign them a parish sponsor with whom they can share concerns/difficulties that it
may be difficult to share with a spouse or fiancé(e).
FORMS
See Appendix 1, Sponsor/Godparent Information Form (Form
RCIA-H), page A-13
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Christian Initiation Coordinator Guide
(4)
Place Dates on Parish Calendar and Reserve Space/Rooms for
Christian Initiation Sessions, Rites, and Other Events
The following events are usually part of the Christian Initiation calendar for the year.
Keep in mind the liturgical season, other parish events and regular activities (e.g.
Religious education/CCD), holidays, etc. as you place these events on the parish
calendar.
a. Weekly Meetings—Most Christian initiation groups meet weekly, either on
a weekday evening or on Sunday. You may find the need to reserve several
rooms, depending on the number of people you have, if you will need spaces
for small groups to meet, etc.
b. Outreach Opportunities—Opportunities to participate in social outreach
activities sponsored by the parish or other organizations should be planned
throughout the year.
c. Rite of Acceptance and Welcoming—This rite is celebrated at least once,
and preferably two or three times each year as inquirers conclude the period
of the Precatechumenate are ready to enter the Catechumenate.
d. Dismissal Rite and Breaking Open the Word—These celebrations take
place weekly (or at another regular time, as circumstances suggest) in the
period of the Catechumenate. Determine the Mass(es) at which this will
happen and where the groups will go following the dismissal.
e. Rite of Sending—This Rite usually takes place on the First Sunday of Lent,
in preparation for the Rite of Election and Call to Continuing Conversion,
although it can also be celebrated at an earlier time, if more convenient.
f. Rite of Election and Call to Continuing Conversion— At the time of this
writing, in the Archdiocese of Washington, this Rite takes place on the First
Sunday of Lent at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate
Conception in Northeast Washington. The Rite, which is NOT a Mass, is
scheduled twice, at 3:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. that Sunday. Parishes attend one
of the liturgies according to the deanery to which they belong. The Office of
Christian Initiation will send a mailing each fall to inform you of the liturgy
your parish is to attend. Some parishes choose to charter a bus to travel to
the Shrine for this liturgy.
g. Penitential Rite (for the baptized) and Scrutinies (for those who are not
baptized)—These liturgies take place at one of the weekend Masses on the
Second, Third, Fourth and Fifth Sundays of Lent.
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Laying the Foundation
h. Presentations of the Creed and Lord’s Prayer—These liturgies usually
take place at the catechetical sessions or at a special celebration during the
third and fifth weeks of Lent.
i.
Retreats/Days of Reflection—Many parishes schedule a retreat (one day
or overnight) during Lent or at other times of the year as a means of helping
the catechumens and candidates prepare for the Rites or the Easter
Sacraments.
j.
The Sacrament of Reconciliation—Those participants in the RCIA who
are baptized (Catholics, Protestants or Evangelical Christians) are to celebrate
the sacrament of Reconciliation prior to receiving the sacraments at Easter.
This can take place at a parish communal reconciliation service, a separate
time set aside for RCIA participants or on an individual basis, as the number
of participants and circumstances suggest.
k. The Easter Triduum and the Easter Vigil—Encourage the catechumens
and candidates to participate in the liturgies of Holy Week by informing
them of the dates and times, and reserving space for them at the front of the
church. Hold a reception following the Easter Vigil.
l.
Mystagogy Meetings—The Christian initiation process does not end at
Easter, but continues throughout the seven weeks of the Easter season until
Pentecost. Offer opportunities for the newly baptized and received Catholics
to meet, pray, and continue to learn about the Christian life.
m. Reconciliation for the Newly Baptized—Schedule a time to make the
sacrament of reconciliation available to the newly-baptized Catholics during
the Easter season.
n. The Neophyte Year—The entire Neophyte Year, until the anniversary of
the neophytes’ baptism or reception, is to be a time for ongoing
opportunities for catechesis, fellowship and prayer. Consider meeting at
least monthly during this year.
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Christian Initiation Coordinator Guide
(5)
Request Clergy Involvement in the Christian Initiation Process
Priests have the responsibility to celebrate the initiation sacraments and rites, attend
to the pastoral care and instruction of the catechumens, and approve the choice of
godparents (cf. RCIA Intro, n. 13). Often some or all of the clergy will be able to be
involved in the initiation formation on a regular basis.
One way to approach this issue is to make a calendar/list of specific events when
you would like to request their involvement. Be sure to include all groups: adults,
teens and children; English, Spanish and any other groups, as you make your request.
IDEAS
Some ideas for clergy involvement include:
Signing letters of invitation
Mentioning initiation in a homily or announcements
Participating in initial interviews
Attending a “Meet the Pastor/Meet the Clergy” evening
Choosing catechists and catechetical texts
Confirming the choice of sponsors
Attending/Teaching at catechetical sessions
Celebrating a Mass during which brief comments are made to explain
what is taking place.
Giving a tour of the church/sacristy
Celebrating the minor rites during the Catechumenate
Presiding at the Presentations during Purification and Enlightenment
Providing spiritual direction for participants
Giving a presentation at a Day of Reflection or Retreat
Participating in the discernment process in preparation for the Rites
Celebrating the sacrament of Reconciliation with candidates prior to their
Rite of Reception into Full Communion and for neophytes some time
after their celebration of the sacraments.
Attending socials and receptions
Discussing budgetary needs
Providing input to an annual evaluation of the initiation process
Attending/leading “field trips” around the parish (the sacristy, the
church, the rectory) or to other sites.
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Laying the Foundation
(6)
Establish a Budget
Operating a Christian initiation process requires both human resources (parishioners
and their time) and financial/material resources. By establishing a budget, you will
make the pastor, finance council and parish aware that initiation takes a commitment
from the parish, not only of time but also of financial/material resources. Start
simply and request additional funds as needed. Also, look for ways to utilize
parishioners’ gifts of time and talent.
Some items commonly included in the Christian initiation budget for a year are listed
below.
Resources for Participants
Items for use in the liturgies
Refreshments
Cards, gifts, etc.
Stipends for speakers, coordinators, catechists, musicians, etc.
Photocopies
Day of Reflection/Retreat Expenses
Transportation to Events (Chartering a bus to attend the Rite of Election
or other events.)
Resources for Catechists
Formation Courses for Catechists and Others
IDEAS
Consider these ideas for raising funds.
Ask participants to pay a small “materials fee” or a “retreat fee” if they
can.
Look for donors for special items.
Ask parish organizations to donate their services/host a reception, etc.
Hold an RCIA bake sale or car wash—A great idea to raise awareness as
well as money.
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Christian Initiation Coordinator Guide
1-10
PRECATECHUMENATE/
INQUIRY PERIOD
“The next day again John was standing with two of his disciples; and
he looked at Jesus as he walked, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of
God!” The two disciples heard him say this and the followed Jesus.
Jesus turned, and saw them following, and said to them, “What do
you seek?” And they said to him, “Rabbi” (which means Teacher),
where are you staying?” He said to them, “Come and see.”
John 1:35-38
(7)
Evangelize and Spread the Word about Initiation
All Catholics have a responsibility to spread the Good News of Jesus. Here are six
ways that individuals and the Church as a whole can evangelize.
Pray. Ask the Lord to help you to live the Christian life well, to invite
those who are interested in becoming Catholic. Invoke the great
evangelist saints. Does your parish regularly include intercessions at
Sunday/daily Mass or other prayer times for those God is calling to the
Church?
Prepare Your Testimony. Be “prepared to make a defense to any one
who calls you to account for the hope that is in you, yet do it with
gentleness and reverence.” (1 Peter 3:15) How would you explain why
you are Catholic and how God has worked in your life if you had 1
minute? 5 minutes? 30 minutes?
Invite. Ask a family member, friend or co-worker if they have thought
about becoming Catholic. Or ask them if they would like to come to
Mass with you. Do you have something about the Church or your parish
(e.g. a brochure) to offer them if they are interested?
“Go Public” with Your Faith. Do you make the sign of the cross in
restaurants? Do you have a crucifix, a picture of Mary, a patron saint, or
the Pope in your office and your home? Are you ready to explain why if
someone asks you?
Be Inquirer-Friendly. How easily can someone contact you, the clergy
or a staff member if he or she wants to know more about the Catholic
Church/becoming Catholic? Is there a link on your parish website called
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Christian Initiation Coordinator Guide
“becoming Catholic”? Do you have a brochure in the vestibule about
the Church/becoming Catholic?
View All that You Do as an Opportunity for Evangelization. Does
your parish invite the local community to parish events? How would
they feel if they came? Does the parish offer services that the
community can take advantage of?
Christian Initiation is an ongoing process and inquirers should be welcomed
throughout the year. However, depending on the initiation model that you use, there
may be certain times when a new “season” is beginning. Find creative ways to get
the word out to potential participants.
IDEAS
Place announcements in the parish bulletin/outdoor marquee/bulletin
boards
Distribute “What is RCIA?” pamphlets
•
Send at least one to each parishioner once a year.
•
Place one in the bulletin one weekend each year.
•
Have them available at the church for visitors.
The initiation liturgies of Lent and the Sacraments of Initiation at Easter
often spark individuals to consider becoming Catholic. The Easter
season is an excellent time to invite inquirers to consider participating in
the Christian initiation process.
Encourage parishioners, team, etc. to Invite Potential Inquirers
•
Mention RCIA in homilies and celebrant’s comments
•
Include letters in local Welcome Wagon packets
•
Mail letters to groups of people who are not Catholic who are
already in the parish database: spouses and fiancé(e)s of Catholics,
parents of parochial school or Religious education/CCD children.
•
Word of mouth from team and previous participants
2-2
Precatechumenate/Inquiry
(8)
Meet Interested Inquirers
“The initial interview with potential catechumens and candidates is important not
only to shape their future formation path but also to uncover potential obstacles
such as divorce/remarriage and family hostility.” (JTFL, p. 20)
Individuals will contact the parish wanting to find out more about the Catholic
Church or about becoming Catholic throughout the year. Some will only want to
know more about the Catholicism. Others will feel strongly that they want to
become Catholic. Most will fall somewhere in between. Some may want to
participate in regular inquiry meetings, while others may want to meet with someone
one-on-one, and others may find it most helpful to read something that introduces
them to the Christian life and the Catholic Church.
Contact the individual to answer any initial questions he or she may have and to
arrange a meeting with you or another team member, priest or deacon. However,
remember that the idea of coming to a Catholic church and meeting with you or
someone else may be difficult for the inquirer. You might offer to meet at a
restaurant or another location, if that seems easier.
a. An Initial Meeting—An initial meeting is an opportunity for you to get to
know an interested inquirer and learn about his or her needs and concerns
and for the individual to ask you any questions he or she may have. Be sure
to request contact information if the inquirer is comfortable sharing it so that
you can follow up or make contact later if he or she is not interested in
taking another step at this time.
Remember not to make any promises about if or when someone may
become Catholic. Since a number of factors will influence when this might
take place, it would be best to explain that preparation for initiation takes
time and that while initiation often takes place at Easter, it can take place at
other times, the most important factors being when the person feels
prepared to take this step and when the parish also feels that he or she is
prepared to do so.
FORMS For Adults
• Inquirer Information Form (Form RCIA—A), page A-3
• Christian Initiation Information (Form RCIA—D), page A-9
For Teens/Children
• Inquirer Information Form (Form RCIA—I), page A-15
• Christian Initiation Information (Form RCIA—J), page A-17
• Instructions for Christian Initiation Information Forms (Form
RCIA—E), page A-2
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Christian Initiation Coordinator Guide
b. Determine Formation Needs—You may get a good sense of an
individual’s familiarity with the Catholic Christian way of life and beliefs
during an initial interview. There are also several resources available that can
aid you in determining where an inquirer is in this regard. (See Resources,
below.) Be sure to explain that these are not “tests” but resources that can
aid both you and the inquirer in seeing where he or she is at this point and
how they can grow in understanding and living the Catholic life in the future.
Once you have a sense of an individual’s interest and familiarity with the
Christian life and Catholicism, you will be able to suggest some ways that will
best aid him or her in finding out more.
If an inquirer has very little catechesis or familiarity with the Christian way of
life, they would normally participate in some form of precatechumenate
formation. See “(9) Provide Formation for Those Who Inquire, Section a.”,
page 2-7 for ideas of what this formation might consist of.
An inquirer with a great depth of Christian conversion and a degree of
religious maturity does not necessarily need to participate in a full
catechumenate. (cf. RCIA, n. 331 and NS, n. 31) See “(9) Provide
Formation for Those Who Inquire, Section b.”, page 2-15 for ideas of what
this formation might entail.
RESOURCES
Catholic Faith Inventory, published by Paulist Press, contains
108 questions grouped into nine categories, including:
Scripture, Conscience and Morality, Social Justice, Basic
Christian Doctrine, Community Participation, etc. A
Participant Workbook permits you and the inquirer to see
how their response compares to the “preferred Catholic
response” and provides questions for further discussion.
Catechetical Assessment Survey: Catechists/Adults, Level Four
asks 165 questions about knowledge of the teachings of
the Catholic Church, personal views and religious
practices. It is available from Catechetical Assessment
Programs, Inc.; P.O. Box 60124, Potomac, MD 208590124; 301-983-5513.
c. Address Marriage Issues—Issues surrounding marriage often pose special
pastoral situations regarding initiation. It is important to address these issues
in a timely manner, so as not to cause any undue delay to the initiation
process. At the same time, the annulment process can be difficult so you will
need to remain sensitive to its effect on an inquirer.
If an inquirer has been previously married, this marriage may need to be
examined by a Marriage Tribunal to determine its validity. A person in this
situation may participate in the Christian initiation process through the
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Precatechumenate/Inquiry
period of the catechumenate; however, they may not be able to celebrate the
Rite of Election/Call to Continuing Conversion or be baptized or received
into the Church if their previous marriage is, in fact, valid.
Use the forms listed below to gather information about a previous marriage.
Inform your pastor and encourage the inquirer to contact the Archdiocesan
Marriage Tribunal at (301) 853-4543 to determine if a previous marriage
needs to be adjudicated.
If a decree of nullity has been granted for a previous marriage, you will need
to verify this declaration. A space has been provided on form RCIA—C for
you to record the appropriate information.
The reverse side of Form RCIA—D “Christian Initiation Information”
provides a place for you to track the steps taken by an inquirer in the tribunal
process.
FORMS See Appendix 1:
• Current Marital Status Follow-Up (Form RCIA—B), page A-5
• Previous Marriage Information (Form RCIA—C), page A-7
• Christian Initiation Information (Form RCIA—D), page A-9
d. Remind Candidates to Locate and Submit Baptismal Certificates
•
Initiation Status—The rites that an initiate celebrates are
determined by whether or not they have been validly baptized.
Therefore it is important to attempt to ascertain the fact and
validity of baptism as soon as possible.
•
Validity of Baptism—The Catholic Church recognizes other
Christian baptisms as valid when they include the use of water by
pouring or immersion and the use of the Trinitarian formula.
It is important to ascertain the validity of the baptism, namely
"whether the person was baptized with water and with the
Trinitarian formula, and whether the minister and the recipient of
the sacrament had the proper requisite intentions" (NS, n. 37). See
Appendix 3, page A-20 for a list of Churches and ecclesial
communities and whether or not their baptisms are recognized as
valid.
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•
The Dignity of Baptism— The Catholic Church recognizes and
respects the fact that those baptized validly in another Christian
community have already been incorporated into Christ in baptism.
Therefore, it is important to distinguish between those who are not
baptized and those who are baptized, either by celebrating separate
rites or, if the combined rites are celebrated, by making
verbal/visual distinctions during the rites.
•
The Baptismal Certificate—A baptismal certificate is requested
in order to secure information required for the baptismal registry in
the Catholic parish: full name, parents' names,
godparents'/witnesses’ names, place of baptism, minister of
baptism, by what matter and form.
If the Inquirer believes he/she has been baptized, and there are
witnesses to that effect (parents, godparents, relatives), or if the
inquirer was baptized as an adult, but there is no certificate
available, the local parish can issue a baptismal certificate following
the preparation of a signed affidavit.1 See sample in Appendix 4,
page A-21.
•
Conditional Baptisms—Conditional Baptism is conferred only if
there is doubt whether one has been baptized or whether baptism
has been validly conferred and after a consideration of the intention
of the baptized adult and of the minister of the baptism. The
dignity of baptism and its indelible character is to be safeguarded
(cf. CIC 869). See also RCIA, n. 480. See Appendix 7, page A-25
Determining an Initiate’s Status or call the Office of Christian
Initiation (301) 853-5335 with questions regarding conditional
baptism.
1 Canon 876 “If it is not prejudicial to anyone, to prove the conferral of baptism, the declaration of a single
witness who is above suspicion suffices or the oath of the baptized person, if the baptism was received at an
adult age.”
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Precatechumenate/Inquiry
(9)
Provide Formation for Those Who Inquire
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults provides general directives regarding the
formation that individuals should receive prior to the Rite of Acceptance into the
Order of Catechumens or the Rite of Welcoming. The following pages identify and
flesh out those general directives.
Section a. Formation for the Person who is Not Baptized or the Catholic or
Other Christian who is Baptized but Uncatechized (immediately below) contains
ideas for the formation of persons who are not baptized or persons who are
baptized, either as Catholics or in another Christian denomination, but received
relatively little catechesis.
Section b. Formation for the Baptized, Catechized Christian (page 2-15)
contains ideas for the formation of baptized Christians who do not need to undergo
“a full program parallel to the catechumenate.” (National Statutes, n. 31)
In both of these cases, there could be more than one way for formation to be
offered to the inquirers. Some individuals will want to (and be able to) participate in
regular gatherings, while for others, occasional conversations with you, a priest,
deacon or team member will be most helpful (or what is most possible, in light of
work, family commitments or other circumstances.)
a. Formation for the Person Who is Not Baptized or the
Catholic or Other Christian Who is Baptized but
Uncatechized
Precatechumenate/Inquiry meetings should be held at least monthly
(in a small group or with the coordinator, clergy or other initiation
minister) so that the inquirer may begin his or her formation without
a long delay.
The guidelines for the Period of Evangelization and
Precatechumenate (n. 36-40) as well as the First Step: Acceptance
into the Order of Catechumens (n. 41-47), suggest five areas of
formation that should take place in this period so that the inquirer is
prepared to celebrate the Rite of Acceptance into the Order of
Catechumens or the Rite of Welcoming.
Thus, it is the Church’s responsibility to give inquirers…
I. “A suitable explanation of the Gospel” (n. 38)
II. An introduction to the “fundamentals of Christian
teaching” (n. 42)
III. “A sense of the Church” (n. 42)
IV. “Some experience of the company and spirit of Christians” (n. 42)
V. Examples of how to “[call] on God in prayer” (n. 42)
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…so that the inquirers will have
VI. “an initial conversion” and will exhibit “an intention to
change their lives and to enter into a relationship with
God in Christ.” (n. 42)
Ideas for each of these six areas of formation are listed on the
following pages. See the “Catholic Church Introduction” or
“Christian Initiation Information” sections, page 2-12 for resources
for inquirers that provide brief overviews of the Church and the
Christian initiation process.
General Reminders for Inquiry Sessions
I.
•
Make time for brief introductions each time the group meets if
anyone is new to the group.
•
Encourage inquirers to ask questions in the group or by writing
them down/e-mailing them.
•
Invite inquirers to share the story of their journey of faith with
sponsors, team members or in small groups as they feel
comfortable doing so.
•
Serve refreshments.
“A Suitable Explanation of the Gospel” (n. 38)
Foster the inquirers’ conversion by proclaiming “the living God…and Jesus
Christ whom he has sent for the salvation of all.” (RCIA, 36) Use these or
other resources to introduce inquirers to Jesus and His mission to redeem us
and make it possible for us to live forever in heaven.
A. Believing in Jesus
Leonard Foley, O.F.M., St. Anthony Messenger Press.
Appendix A contains an excellent discussion of how to use this book in the
Christian initiation process. It recommends discussing the following chapters in
the precatechumenate:
1. Jesus’ Bible: The Old Testament
2. Jesus in Inspired Human Words: The New Testament
3. The Missionary Jesus: ‘He Went About Doing Good’
4. Jesus’ Teaching Stories: The Parables
5. Jesus, a Danger to Church and State
6. The Dying and Rising of Jesus: The Heart of the Christian Life
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Precatechumenate/Inquiry
B. The Human Face of Jesus: The Gospel of Luke
Alfred McBride, O. Praem; Our Sunday Visitor.
Plan a Bible Study to explore the Gospel of Luke, which includes the infancy
narrative. The leader could use this resource to introduce inquirers to “The
Human Face of Jesus.”
C. Jesus
The Jesus Film Project P.O. Box 72007, San Clemente, CA 92674.
Show this 2-hour movie in one sitting or in segments to present Jesus’ life in a
compelling manner.
The accompanying guide contains the Gospel of St. Luke with images from the
movie as well as personal testimonies, questions for reflection, etc.
Consider these additional ideas:
•
Tell the story of salvation history showing how God has worked
throughout time to save us and make us his own. Begin with
Creation and the Fall, explain key figures from the Old Testament,
discuss Jesus’ Incarnation and Redemption, the Early Church, high
points from Church history and conclude with the promise of
eternal life in heaven.
•
Introduce inquirers to Jesus through Scriptural images that reveal
different aspects about him:
Jesus the Good Shepherd
Jesus the King
Jesus the Teacher
Jesus the Miracle-Worker
Jesus the Son of God
Jesus the God-Man
Jesus the Prophet
Jesus the Redeemer
Jesus the Way, the Truth and the Life
Jesus the Jew
Jesus the Son of Mary
Jesus the Healer and Forgiver
II. The “Fundamentals of Christian Teaching” (n. 42) and
III. A Sense of the Church.” (n. 42)
Present the broad brushstrokes and key elements of Christian teaching
knowing that you will re-visit the most significant topics in the
catechumenate.
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D. Believing Catholic
Archbishop Daniel Pilarczyk, St. Anthony Messenger Press.
This resource tells the story of salvation history in brief, readable chapters.
Discussion questions at the end of each chapter provide opportunities for
further reflection.
Chapter One:
FAITH: Saying ‘We Believe’
Chapter Two:
CREATION: The Masterpiece
Chapter Three:
CREATION: The Ongoing Story
Chapter Four:
SIN: The Wrench in the Works
Chapter Five:
JESUS OF NAZARETH: God’s Gift
Chapter Six:
RESURRECTION: The Fulfillment
Chapter Seven:
INCARNATION: The God-Man
Chapter Eight:
SALVATION: The Accomplishment
Chapter Nine:
GRACE: The Sharing
Chapter Ten:
CHURCH: The Community
Chapter Eleven:
CHURCH: The Mission
Chapter Twelve:
TRINITY: The Source
Chapter Thirteen:
GLORY: The Goal
E. Journey of Faith
Liguori Publications
The “Inquiry” handouts from this series (listed below) begin to answer
inquirers’ questions and give them a sense of the Church. Journey of Faith is
available for adults, teens and children in English and Spanish.
Q1.
Journey of Faith
Q2.
What Do Catholics Believe?
Q3.
What is the Meaning of the Mass?
Q4.
The Bible
Q5.
How Do Catholics Interpret the Bible?
Q6.
The Saints
Q7.
Mary
Q8.
Places in the Catholic Church
Q9.
Who’s Who in the Church
Q10.
Catholics and Prayer
Q11.
Catholic Practices
Q12.
Catholics and Church
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Precatechumenate/Inquiry
Several handouts from the “Catechumenate” section, including “C10: Who is
Jesus Christ” and “C13-C16” on Morality and Social Justice would round out an
introduction to Catholicism.
F. What It Means to be Catholic
(Rev. Joseph Champlin, St. Anthony Messenger Press)
Chapter 1.
Chapter 2.
Chapter 3.
Chapter 4.
Chapter 5.
Chapter 6.
Chapter 7.
Chapter 8.
Chapter 9.
Chapter 10.
Chapter 11.
Chapter 12.
Caring About Ourselves
The Search For Happiness
Our Roots
Words of Wisdom and Power
Heroes/Heroines
Talking with God
Faith
The Need to Belong
Yearning to Be Free
Making Up and Starting Over
Strength in Our Weaknesses
Coping With Life’s Hard Knocks
Ideas for Using the Above Resources
Determine which resource to use according to your group. A structured
resource suited to a precatechumenate group that meets regularly may not
work well with a group that has sporadic attendance. Those who lead inquiry
should be flexible and able to adapt to whatever situations may arise.
A. Ask inquirers to read one chapter/handout in preparation for each
meeting
B. Prepare a presentation using a chapter/handout as a guide.
C. Read sections of the chapter aloud (or invite the inquirers to take turns
doing so) stopping to comment or ask for questions.
D. Depart from a planned topic to address something that is of interest to
the inquirers. At the same time, be cautious of devoting too much time
to topics that are peripheral. Address these privately if necessary.
E. Discuss the questions at the end of the chapter/in each handout.
F. Have Bibles available for all, in order to look up Scripture references.
Help inquirers learn how to navigate through the Bible.
G. Be prepared to answer questions that may come up from the
reading/presentation/discussion. Answers do not need to be exhaustive
but should give the inquirer a basic understanding of the issue. It is all
right to say, “I don’t know. Let me get back to you on that.”
H. Maintain a library of basic books and resources for inquirers to borrow
and read as their interests suggest.
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G. Introduction to the Catholic Church
A. The following resources would be good to have copies of for
individuals who want to know more about the Catholic Church.
Send copies of the pamphlets to all parishioners so they have a copy
when someone asks them about becoming Catholic.
Catholics: A Welcoming Community. St. Anthony Messenger Press, 1992.
Discover the Catholic Church. LTP, 2002.
The Catholic Church: Who Are We. St. Anthony Messenger Press, 1986.
Pillar of Fire, Pillar of Truth. Catholic Answers, 1997.
B. Offer a tour of your parish church and grounds as a way of
stimulating questions.
H. Christian Initiation Information
Make copies of these resources available to parishioners who want to
know more about the Christian initiation process. The resources marked
with an asterisk (*) are geared toward people thinking about becoming
Catholic while the others are for individuals who are already Catholic.
About the RCIA. Channing L. Bete, Scriptographic Products, 1984.
The Art of Making New Catholics. Catholic Update (CU 0186) St. Anthony
Messenger Press.
Come to the Water: The Adult Journey to Baptism. (DVD with online study guide
available) Catholic Communication Campaign, 2005. USCCB
Publications.
* How Does a Person Become a Catholic? Ron Lewinski and Victoria Tufano.
Liturgy Training Publications, 1994.
A New Look at the RCIA. Rita Burns Senseman. Catholic Update
(C0502) St. Anthony Messenger Press, 2002.
The RCIA and You. Liguori Publications, 1999.
* The RCIA: Four Steps to Becoming a Fully Initiated Catholic. Liturgical
Commission Publishings, Diocese of Lansing, 1990.
* Understanding the RCIA. Julia Upton, RSM. The Liturgical Press, 1988.
IV. “Some Experience of the Company and Spirit of Christians.”
(n. 38)
Remember that the initiation ministers who lead the precatechumenate/
inquiry sessions may not be the first people with whom a potential inquirer
comes in contact at your parish. Are the parish secretary, staff and all
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Precatechumenate/Inquiry
parishioners hospitable and welcoming to those inquiring about the Catholic
Faith? Are they knowledgeable about the initiation process?
Here are some ideas to introduce inquirers to other Christians:
A. Match the inquirer with an initiation minister (team member or sponsor)
who can meet as needed to answer questions and talk about the Catholic
faith.
B. Invite inquirers to parish social events (choir concerts, the parish picnic,
etc.) as well as Sunday Mass. Have a team member, sponsor or other
individual meet them or pick them up.
C. Invite the parish clergy to attend inquiry sessions or to meet individually
with inquirers so that they get to know one another.
D. Ask a family from the parish to host an inquirer or another family who is
thinking about becoming Catholic for dinner.
E. Have open houses, potlucks or other gatherings for potential inquirers to
“Come and See” what the Church is about.
F. Invite team members, catechists, sponsors, clergy, neophytes and other
parishioners to share their testimonies in the formation that takes place in
the precatechumenate.
G. Keep a list of individuals with various interests or who were members of
various denominations before becoming Catholic for inquirers to talk to.
V. Examples of How to “[Call] on God in Prayer.” (n. 42)
Explain how and why Christians turn to God in prayer. The personal
testimony of how different people pray is invaluable. Keep in mind that
most inquirers pray in one form or another. Ask them to share how they
pray. Introduce those who have not prayed much to different ways of
praying to help them find one that suits them. Invite those who already have
a strong prayer life to “go deeper.” Some ideas for helping inquirers learn or
deepen their prayer follow.
A. Pray using the Bible, especially the Psalms.
B. Provide a booklet or handout of basic Catholic prayers and demonstrate
how to pray them.
C. Model intercessory prayer and invite inquirers to write down or say out
loud things that they would like to pray for.
D. Discuss meditation and other forms of silent prayer.
E. Discuss/investigate other prayer forms that the inquirer may ask about.
F. Sing songs that can be learned easily. Invite inquirers to sing as they feel
moved to do so.
G. Pray individually with inquirers as circumstances suggest and if they feel
comfortable doing so.
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Christian Initiation Coordinator Guide
VI. Foster “an initial conversion” to aid the inquirers in having “an
intention to change their lives and to enter into a relationship with
God in Christ.” (n. 42)
Foundations in Faith Precatechumenate Manual
Resources for Christian Living (RCL)
This resource contains outlines for 27 sessions grouped under four motifs:
Journey, Call, Community and Liberation (See list below.) The sessions are
designed to be used in any order and each follows a format where inquirers are
invited to share personal stories, the team presents stories from Scripture and
then inquirers are invited to make connections between the two as a way of
seeing how the same God who has worked throughout the Old and New
Testaments is at work in their lives also. Reproducible masters of handouts for
the participants are included for each session.
JOURNEY
The Journey is Lifelong
The Journey Unfolds Gradually
Trust in the Promise on the Journey
Critical Moments on the Journey
Trusting God on the Journey
Suffering on the Journey of Life
Nourished by Prayer on the Journey
CALL
God Calls Us to a New Place
God Creates and Forms Us
The God Who Calls
I Am Called
Resisting the Call
Obedience to the Call
Discerning the Call
COMMUNITY
We Are Created for Community
God Forms a People
Parables of the Kingdom
The Community Celebrates
Parish Life
Structure of the Catholic Church
LIBERATION
The Journey Out of Slavery Into Freedom
God Liberates Us from Sin with Unconditional Love
Forgiving Others and Ourselves
Justice Liberates Us and Others
Anger Moves Us to Act
Liberation from Death to New Life
Liberation Comes Through Taking Up the Cross
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Precatechumenate/Inquiry
Also included in this manual are an excellent Introduction that explains
the Precatechumenate period; an outline for a Church Tour, which
includes Scripture verses to be prayed at the various areas of the Church;
a “Quick Questions” section with brief answers to 12 common questions
from inquirers.
b. Formation for the Baptized, Catechized Christian
Baptized and catechized Christians may need only “doctrinal and spiritual
preparation” before being received into the full communion of the Church.
It is often best to provide for the formation of these inquirers separately
from that of the catechumens. No special permission is required to confirm
someone who was baptized in another Christian denomination. This Rite of
Reception (see RCIA, n. 473ff.) may be celebrated at any time in the year,
though you may wish to do so on special feast days, e.g. Christ the King,
Epiphany, the patronal feast of your parish.
A baptized, catechized Christian who has a solid formation in the Christian
life may profit from many of the resources listed on the previous pages. He
or she may also need to have the differences between their view and the
Catholic understanding of certain points explained. In this case, the
resources below might assist in providing formation for them.
In any case, if formation other than the catechumenate is deemed
appropriate for a baptized inquirer, it is still important to see that he or she is
connected to the parish community. Individuals who want to become
Catholic may know what Catholics believe, but if they are welcomed into the
Church without becoming part of a parish community, they may find the
Church a lonely place, especially if their family and friends do not support
their decision.
Often times, an inquirer is married to a Catholic, has Catholic family
members or friends, or has children who attend a Catholic school. In this
case, he or she may have a good connection to the parish already. If not,
participation in the catechumenate or establishing a relationship with a
sponsor will aid in strengthening the inquirer’s connection to the parish
community.
Catholic and Christian
Alan Schreck, Servant Publications, 1984
This book presents select doctrines which Catholics and other Christians
view differently with explanations that rely heavily on Scripture including:
Salvation, The Church, The Pope, The Work of the Holy Spirit, The
Sacraments, Mary.
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Rome Sweet Home
Scott and Kimberly Hahn, Ignatius Press, 1993
A Presbyterian minister and his wife tell the story of their journey “home” to
the Roman Catholic Church.
Surprised By Truth (Book 1, 2, and 3)
Patrick Madrid, Basilica Press, 1994
In these books, men and women who have come into full communion with
the Catholic Church tell the stories of their journeys, providing scriptural and
historical reasons for their decision to become Catholic.
The Coming Home Network—http://www.chnetwork.org/
The Coming Home Network assists Protestant and Evangelical pastors to
become Catholic. Excellent online testimonies and resources.
The Privilege of Being Catholic
Rev. Oscar Lukefahr, C.M., Liguori Publications, 1993
Inspired by a discussion of the question “Just what makes us Catholic?”
Father Lukefahr wrote this book to explain how the “sacramental principle”
is at the root of our Catholic identity.
c. Keep Attendance
While it is to be expected that the initiates will not be able to attend each
initiation event, keeping track of who attends the various sessions and events
is helpful for several reasons:
1. It helps you know who has enough interest to show up at least
once. If an initiate does not return, you can contact them to see if
they are still interested. If they are not interested at the present
time, you could contact them once each year to see if their
situation or interest has changed and invite them to attend again.
2. If you distribute handouts or other materials, you will know who
still needs to receive them.
3. Prior to the celebration of the major liturgical rites, their interest,
as expressed by their attendance, will give you some idea of the
inquirer's readiness to celebrate the Rite.
2-16
Precatechumenate/Inquiry
(10)
Prepare for the Rite of Acceptance and/or Rite of Welcoming
a. Discern Inquirers’ Readiness to Participate in the Rite.
The guidelines for the First Step: Acceptance into the Order of Catechumens
(n. 42), suggests seven interior dispositions whose outward indications show
that the inquirer is prepared to celebrate the Rite of Acceptance into the
Order of Catechumens or the Rite of Welcoming:
1) An initial faith in God;
2) An initial conversion and intention to change one’s life;
3) A desire to enter into a relationship with God;
4) Signs of repentance;
5) The start of a prayer life;
6) A sense of the Church;
7) A familiarity with the “company and spirit of Christians.”
Some or all of these dispositions may be present when an inquirer first
contacts you. Others may not be immediately present and must grow during
this time. In preparation for the Rite of Acceptance or Rite of Welcoming:
“…sufficient and necessary time, as required in each case, should be set
aside to evaluate and, if necessary, to purify the candidates’ motives and
dispositions. With the help of the sponsors, catechists, and deacons,
pastors have the responsibility for judging the outward indications of
such dispositions.” (RCIA, n. 43)
This evaluation, or discernment, as it is often called, may take place in
an informal way as the coordinator, clergy and sponsors observe an
inquirer’s growth. It may also take place in a more formal setting,
e.g. an interview or discussion directly with the inquirer. A sample
letter to send to inquirers to aid them in discerning their readiness is
found on page 2-19. Sample questions for an interview/discussion
with inquirers are given on page 2-20. You might also plan a
Discernment Retreat or Evening/Day of Reflection prior to the Rite
of Acceptance and/or Rite of Welcoming.
b. Review the RCIA Text for these Rites
See the RCIA text for the instructions for the Rite of Acceptance (n. 41-68,
n. 74), the Rite of Welcoming (n. 411-433) or the Combined Rite (n. 505529.)
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c. Prepare for the Rite
Arrange a meeting with the pastor and/or the priest who will be presiding at
this liturgy as well as musicians and other liturgical ministers (e.g. lectors) at
least six weeks prior to the celebration of this Rite in order to discuss how
the rite will be celebrated. Some questions for you to consider are listed on
pages 2-21 and 2-22.
d. Gather/Order materials for the celebration of the Rite.
See the checklist on page 2-22.
The power of ritual and symbols is brought to bear through the liturgical
rites of the Christian initiation process. Giving the inquirers a Bible or
cross/crucifix can be an effective component of this liturgy and worth the
cost to the parish.
e. Celebrate a prayer service to prepare the inquirers for the Rite.
A sample prayer service is included in Appendix 10, page A-36.
f. Give participants instructions about where to meet, what to wear, what
will take place at the Rite, etc.
While it is important to explain to inquirers the principal ritual elements that
will take place at the rite, especially those in which they will have a response
of some sort, consider having only the sponsors “rehearse” what will actually
take place during the rite. Encourage inquirers to follow the directions of the
sponsors so that they might not be worried about “doing everything right”
but can experience the rite as it unfolds.
g. Invite family and friends of inquirers and parish prayer companions to
the Rite.
h. Provide ways for the parish to begin to meet the inquirers.
Plan a reception following the Rite.
Create a poster with pictures of inquirers (and family or sponsors), a
brief biography, etc. for the vestibule of the church or put
information in the bulletin.
i. Reflect on the Rite of Acceptance and Welcoming with the
catechumens and candidates.
2-18
Discernment for The Rite of Acceptance
and Rite of Welcoming
Send the following letter to the catechumens and candidates inviting them to reflect on whether or
not they feel that they are ready to celebrate the Rite of Acceptance or Rite of Welcoming
Dear Inquirer,
We are approaching a time at which you can decide whether you feel that you are
ready to take the first step toward becoming Catholic by participating in the Rite of
Acceptance (if you are not baptized) or Rite of Welcoming (if you are baptized). As
you consider this question, I ask you to contemplate the following questions.
1. Do I search for the meaning of life’s mysteries in my relationship with God?
Who is Jesus for me?
2. Do I realize that private and public prayer are essential parts of being a Catholic?
Am I willing to gather with the Church for Mass on Sunday as well as to pray on
my own each day?
3. Do I recognize that I am responsible for the moral choices I make? Am I willing
to ask forgiveness for my wrong/hurtful decisions?
4. Do I seek to know what the Church teaches and be formed by her wisdom? Am
I committed to study and ponder even when there are teachings that I find hard
to understand or accept?
5. Have I perceived any moral struggles in my life that have come from our
discussions? Do I understand and accept the Church's teachings on morality and
social issues? Are there areas in which I can't accept this viewpoint?
6. Am I willing to embrace the demands as well as the delights of discipleship? Will
I be involved in service and outreach with the parish community?
7. Do I feel that I am ready to publicly state that I wish to continue to prepare to
become Catholic/to receive the sacraments of initiation?
After reflecting on these questions, please let me know of your own discernment
and desire to participate in this rite or to wait a while. If you decide that you would
like to take this step, the Church has a responsibility to attest to the fact that you are
ready to do so, so I may want to meet with you to discuss your decision. If you
decide that you would like to wait a while and revisit this question at a later date, that
is fine and the right decision if you are not sure at this time.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Christian Initiation Coordinator
2-19
Discernment Interview
Rite of Acceptance/Rite of Welcoming
Interviewer: Read the Rite of Christian Initiation, n. 42 and 43 before beginning.
Name
Seeking admission as a ˆ catechumen ˆ candidate
Sponsor
1) What has your experience of the sessions up to this point been? Which ones have
affected you most? What have you enjoyed most? What has challenged you most?
2) Can you see changes in your relationship with God or with your family or friends
during this time?
3) What kind of changes do you see in yourself?
4) How has your relationship with your sponsor been working out?
5) Tell me about how you pray.
6) Do you have other questions about what has taken place?
7) How do you feel about becoming a member of the Catholic Church?
8) Are you beginning to have a sense of belonging to this parish community?
9) Do you wish to take the next step in the initiation process?
After explaining the questions that will be asked of the inquirer during the Rite of Acceptance/Rite of
Welcoming, ask:
10) Do you understand what is being asked of you in the Rite of Acceptance/Rite of
Welcoming? Are you prepared to take this step?
2-20
Liturgy
Preparation
Combined Rite of Acceptance into
the Order of Catechumens and
Rite of Welcoming Candidates
n. 505 ff.
Please note:
Rite of Acceptance for Catechumens ONLY: n. 41ff; Rite of Welcoming Candidates ONLY: n. 411ff
Questions to Prepare for the Rite
BEFORE THE RITE
1. When will the Rite be celebrated?
Does an upcoming liturgical feast suggest a date (e.g. the patronal feast of the parish)? Do any
Scripture readings in the Lectionary suggest a celebration on a particular date?
2. Will the Rite be celebrated at a Mass or at a Celebration of the Word apart from Mass?
If the celebration will take place at Mass, will it be a Sunday celebration or a weekday celebration?
Will this Rite always take place at one particular Mass or will it rotate among Masses to involve more
of the parish community?
3. How will you inform the parish that the Rite will be taking place?
Announcements could be made for several weeks before the Rite at all Masses and communicated in
other ways (e.g. in the bulletin, on a website, at parish meetings, etc.) The day of the Rite, the
coordinator or celebrant could make a brief announcement before the Rite begins.
4. How will other liturgical ministers be prepared for the rite?
Since this rite may replace the Introductory Rites of Mass, altar servers, lectors, musicians and others
will need to be alerted to any changes (e.g. how the procession will take place, when to begin the first
reading, etc.)
RECEIVING THE CANDIDATES
5. Where will the rite begin?
The RCIA Text suggests that the Rite begin at the entrance to the Church. This is particularly
appropriate for those who are not baptized, since they are entering into a relationship with the
Church through this Rite. The rite might even take place outside of the Church with the
congregation assembling there and the celebrant processing to the site while an opening song is sung.
However those who are already baptized are already in a relationship with the Church, therefore it
may be more appropriate to situate them in the Church as this rite begins (cf. RCIA, n. 416).
Ushers might need to be told to ask people who arrive just prior to the beginning of the Rite to wait
until the Scripture readings begin so that they do not interrupt the rite.
6. How will a distinction be made between the catechumens and candidates in the Rite?
The celebrant might insert remarks to help the congregation know who is who.
7. How will the opening dialogue take place? (n. 509)
Will the candidates for the catechumenate and the candidates for full communion say their own
names (Option A) or will their names be called (Option B)?
8. How will the questions and answers take place?
Will the participants in the Rite answer with the responses suggested in the text or will they use their
own words. How will they be prepared to give their response?
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9. How will the “First Acceptance of the Gospel” (n. 511) and the “Declaration of Intent” (n.
512) take place?
There are several options given in the rites when they are not celebrated as a combined rite that may
be used (cf. n. 52, n. 419).
SIGNING OF THE SENSES
10. How will the Signing of the Senses take place? (n. 514-520)
Where will the celebrant stand for the signing of the forehead? Where will the inquirers move to
after the signing of the forehead? Will the signing of the other senses take place? Will there be any
music during this portion of the rite? How will the sponsors be prepared for this portion of the rite?
INVITATION TO THE CELEBRATION OF THE WORD OF GOD
11. Will music accompany the procession to the pews? (n. 521)
If the Rite has taken place at the entrance to the church, this procession is similar to the entrance
procession of Mass.
12. Where will the catechumens and candidates for full communion be seated?
It might be helpful to seat them on different sides of the center aisle or in different pews.
13. What readings will be used?
If the Lectionary norms permit it, will the readings suggested in the Rite be substituted for the
regular readings for Mass (n. 523)? How will the lectors and homilist be alerted to this fact?
PRESENTATION OF A BIBLE AND/OR A CROSS
14. Will Bibles or Crosses be presented to the inquirers?
What words will be used to present these items? Will the inquirers respond?
INTERCESSIONS FOR THE CATECHUMENS AND CANDIDATES
15. Will you include intercessions for the whole Church?
There is an option to include the usual general intercessions from the Mass at this point (cf. n. 526,
529).
DISMISSAL OF THE CATECHUMENS
16. Will the catechumens be dismissed? Will the candidates join them?
17. Who will go with them to break open the word and reflect on the rite?
LITURGY OF THE EUCHARIST
18. The profession of Faith may be omitted and intercessions combined with earlier ones.
Checklist
Reserved Pews for participants
Crosses/Crucifixes
Instructions for other liturgical
ministers—Lectors, ushers.
Bibles/Sunday Missals
Intercessions from the Rite for the
Lector
Script for Presider, Musicians, etc.
Worship Aids for the congregation
Congratulations Cards from team,
clergy, intercessors, etc.
Lists of names to be called
(Catechumens and Candidates)
2-22
CATECHUMENATE/
PERIOD OF FORMATION
And one of them, a lawyer, asked Jesus a question, to test him.
"Teacher, which is the great commandment in the law?" And he said
to him, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and
with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the great and first
commandment. And a second is like it, You shall love your neighbor
as yourself. On these two commandments depend all the law and the
prophets."
Matthew 22:35-40
(11)
Form Catechumens and Candidates in the Christian Life
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults provides general directives regarding the
formation that individuals should receive prior to the Rite of Election or the Call to
Continuing Conversion. The following pages identify and flesh out those general
directives.
Section a. Formation for the Person Who is not Baptized or the Catholic or
Other Christian who is Baptized but Uncatechized (below) contains ideas for
the formation of persons who are not baptized or persons who are baptized, either
as Catholics or in another Christian denomination, but have received relatively little
catechesis.
Section b. Formation for the Baptized, Catechized Christian (page 3-7) contains
ideas for the formation of baptized Christians who do not need to undergo “a full
program parallel to the catechumenate.” (National Statutes, n. 31)
a. Formation for the Person Who is not Baptized or the Catholic or Other
Christian who is Baptized but Uncatechized
The guidelines for the Period of the Catechumenate (n. 75-80) suggest four
areas of formation in the Christian life that should take place in this period so
that the dispositions manifested at the celebration of the Rite of Acceptance
or Rite of Welcoming are brought to maturity. (Cf. n. 75)
Thus, in this period, it is the Church’s responsibility to provide
catechumens and candidates with…
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I. “A suitable catechesis…planned to be gradual and complete in
its coverage, accommodated to the liturgical year, and solidly
supported by celebrations of the word” (n. 75.1)
II. A familiarity with the “Christian way of life” (n. 75.2)
III. Celebrations of the “liturgical rites” (n. 75.3)
IV. An understanding of how to “spread the Gospel and build up the
Church by the witness of their lives” (n. 75.4)
In the Christian initiation process, pastors, coordinators and
catechists share in the Church’s mandate to “baptize all nations” and
“teach them all that [Jesus] commanded.” (Cf. Matthew 28:18-20) It
is therefore important to assure that inquirers receive the Church’s
teaching in its fullness. In addition to being taught the truths of the
Faith, inquirers should be shown how to apply these truths to their
lives. Ideas for each of these four areas of formation are suggested
below.
I.
A Suitable Catechesis
The catechetical themes listed below, when solidly supported by celebrations
of the Word and reinforced through practical applications to the
catechumens’ and candidates’ life experiences, are suggested to provide a
“thoroughly comprehensive catechesis.” (National Statutes, 7)
While these themes are listed according to the four pillars of the Catechism of
the Catholic Church: Creed, Sacraments, Morality and Prayer, this is not
necessarily the order in which they will be presented. Clergy, coordinators
and catechists should work together to determine the order and manner of
presenting the themes.
As the General Directory for Catechesis (GDC) explains: “The selecting of a
particular order for presenting the [Gospel] message is conditioned by
circumstances, and by the faith level of those to be catechized.” (n. 118)
Another guiding principle for teaching the Faith is the need to respect the
hierarchy of truths, which means that “some truths are based on others as of a
higher priority and are illumined by them.” (GDC 114)
See Appendix 11, page A-45 for a “Sample Catechumenate Session Outline.”
The Profession of Faith
Catechetical Theme 1:
Our Desire and Capacity for God
Catechetical Theme 2:
Divine Revelation
Catechetical Theme 3:
Scripture and Tradition
Catechetical Theme 4:
Faith
Catechetical Theme 5:
Creation
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Catechetical Theme 6:
Sin
Catechetical Theme 7:
Jesus: The Incarnation, Redemption and Second
Coming
Catechetical Theme 8:
The Holy Spirit
Catechetical Theme 9:
God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit: The
Trinity
Catechetical Theme 10:
One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic: The
Church
Catechetical Theme 11:
Mary: the Mother of God
Catechetical Theme 12:
Call to Holiness: The Communion of Saints
Catechetical Theme 13:
The Four Last Things: Death, Judgment,
Heaven and Hell
Celebrating the Christian Mystery
Catechetical Theme 14:
The Liturgical and Sacramental Life of the
Church
Catechetical Theme 15:
The Sacrament of Baptism
Catechetical Theme 16:
The Sacrament of Confirmation
Catechetical Theme 17:
Eucharist: Theology of the Mass
Catechetical Theme 18:
Eucharist: Structure of the Mass
Catechetical Theme 19:
The Sacrament of Reconciliation
Catechetical Theme 20:
The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick
Catechetical Theme 21:
The Sacrament of Matrimony
Catechetical Theme 22:
The Sacrament of Holy Orders
Life in Christ
Catechetical Theme 23:
Catholic Morality and The Dignity of the
Human Person
Catechetical Theme 24:
Living the Catholic Moral Life
Catechetical Theme 25:
Sin and the Constant Call of Conversion
Catechetical Theme 26:
Social Justice
Catechetical Theme 27:
The Ten Commandments
Catechetical Theme 28:
Life Issues: Euthanasia, Abortion, Suicide,
Physician-Assisted Suicide, Just War
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Catechetical Theme 29:
Human Sexuality: Contraception/Natural
Family Planning, Reproductive Technologies
(IVF, etc.), Homosexuality
Catechetical Theme 30:
Spiritual and Corporal Works of Mercy
Christian Prayer
Catechetical Theme 31:
Prayer in the Christian Life
Other Topics
Catechetical Theme 32:
The Precepts of the Church
Catechetical Theme 33:
Church History
Catechetical Theme 34:
Getting Married in the Church, Dying in the
Church
Catechetical Theme 35:
Making Everyday Decisions from a Catholic
Perspective
Catechetical Theme 36:
Catholic Family Life: How to Live the Faith
in the Home, How to Raise Children as
Catholics
Catechetical Theme 37:
Understanding Evangelization: How to
Witness to the Catholic Christian Life in the
Workplace, the Family, the Marketplace
Catechist Resources
The resources below provide background material for catechists as they
prepare to teach.
A. Exploring the Teaching of Christ
Our Sunday Visitor
B.
Foundations in Faith
Resources for Christian Living (RCL)
C.
Journey of Faith
Liguori Publications
D. Making Disciples
Our Sunday Visitor
E.
RCIA Catechist’s Manual
Association for Catechumenal Ministry (ACM)
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Catechumenate/Period of Formation
Primary Participant Resources
While each of the resources below present a “thoroughly comprehensive
catechesis” (NS 7), some topics may not be addressed to the degree that
initiates need, so additional resources will be necessary.
F.
Believing in Jesus
Leonard Foley, O.F.M., St. Anthony Messenger Press.
G. Essentials of the Faith
Rev. Alfred McBride, Our Sunday Visitor
H. Foundations in Faith: Participant Manuals
Resources for Christian Living (RCL)
I.
Handbook for Today’s Catholic
Liguori Publications
J.
Invitation to Catholicism
ACTA Publications
K. Journey of Faith
Liguori Publications
L.
RCIA Participant’s Book
Association for Catechumenal Ministry (ACM)
M. The Teaching of Christ (Catechism and Participant Book)
Our Sunday Visitor
N.
“We Believe…” A Survey of the Catholic Faith
Oscar Lukefahr, C.M., Liguori Publications
O. Your Faith: A Popular Presentation of Catholic belief
Liguori Publications
II. The Christian Way of Life
The formation in the Catholic Christian life that initiates receive should
include some of the following or similar ideas for learning how to express
their “Faith In Action”:
Faith In Action 1.
Attending Sunday and Holy Day Masses
Faith In Action 2.
Participating in Celebrations of the Other Sacraments:
Baptism, Matrimony, Holy Orders, Confirmation,
Reconciliation Services, Anointing of the Sick
Faith In Action 3.
Attending Evenings of Reflection/Retreat Days at the
parish or elsewhere.
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Faith In Action 4.
Celebrating Advent/Christmas/Lent/Easter/Feast and
Fast Days
Faith In Action 5.
Participating in the March for Life/Other Pro Life
Activities
Faith In Action 6.
Visiting the Pope John Paul II Cultural Center
Faith In Action 7.
Taking a Tour of the Church
Faith In Action 8.
Participating in Small Christian Communities, Men’s or
Women’s Groups
Faith In Action 9.
Fostering Devotion to Mary and the Saints
Faith In Action 10.
Making a Pilgrimage to the Basilica of the National
Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, the John Paul II
Cultural Center or the Franciscan Monastery in
Northeast Washington, DC; or to the Saint Elizabeth
Ann Seton Shrine, and Lourdes Grotto, Emmitsburg,
Maryland.
Faith In Action 11.
Participating in Ongoing Education: Bible Study, Online
Courses, Lecture Series, Catholic Internet Sites, etc.
Faith In Action 12.
Taking part in Outreach Opportunities/Corporal Works
of Mercy: So Others Might Eat (S.O.M.E.);
Archdiocesan Lobby Night
Faith In Action 13.
Experiencing Various Prayer Forms: Charismatic Prayer,
Benediction/Daily Mass/Rosary, etc.
Faith In Action 14.
Viewing Art, Reading Literature, Listening to Music
inspired by Christianity over the centuries
Faith In Action 15.
Viewing a Movie, Analyzing Current Events from a
Catholic Perspective
III. The Liturgical Rites
Celebrations of the Word of God (cf. n. 81-89)
Celebrations of the Word of God are to take place in three settings:
(1) Celebrations held specially for the catechumens.
Use this prayer format to begin a gathering to celebrate a liturgical season or
prior to participating in a “Faith In Action” or other initiation event. Invite
the parish to these events.
(2) At Sunday Mass
Catechumens participate in the Liturgy of the Word at Sunday Mass and then
may be “kindly dismissed” before the liturgy of the Eucharist for Breaking
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Catechumenate/Period of Formation
Open the Word. (cf. n. 75.3). Candidates may be invited to join the
catechumens. (See (12) Hold Breaking Open the Word Sessions, page 3-9
for more information.)
(3) Celebrations held in conjunction with catechetical instruction.
Gatherings for catechesis may begin or end with a celebration of the Word of
God, designed to focus on the catechetical theme that is discussed.
See Appendix 12, page A-47 for a template for preparing a Celebration of
the Word of God.
Minor Exorcisms, (n. 90ff) Blessings (n. 95ff), and Anointing with the
Oil of Catechumens (n. 98ff) should take place during the catechumenate
according to the guidelines in the RCIA text.
IV. Evangelization
An important element that should appear throughout the catechetical
formation for catechumens and candidates is an understanding of the
baptismal apostolate, namely that everyone who is baptized has a
responsibility to witness to the Gospel through their lives. Some of the ideas
in the “Faith in Action” section provide ways for initiates to express their
faith. They should also be encouraged to share their faith with others by
RESOURCES
Discovering My Experience of God: Awareness and Witness
published by Paulist Press provides a simple method of
inviting catechumens and candidates to become more
aware of how God has worked in their lives so that they
might share this with others.
V. Preparing for the Easter Vigil
Though it may seem far away, consider how you can incorporate ritual
elements from the Easter Vigil (Scripture readings, psalms, the Litany of the
Saints, the Paschal Candle, the baptismal font, etc.) throughout the formation
of catechumens and candidates so that they may enter into the Vigil more
fully when that day arrives.
b. Formation for the Baptized, Catechized Christian
After celebrating the Rite of Welcoming, the baptized, catechized Christian
may need only “instruction in the Catholic tradition and a degree of
probation within the Catholic community.” (National Statutes, n. 31, cf. NS,
n. 30) He or she might receive catechesis on some or all of the topics
outlined in Section a., above, beginning on page 3-1. Additional resources
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can be found in “Formation for the Baptized, Catechized Christian,” page 215. This formation would not necessarily happen at the same time as the
catechumenate, since the Rite of Reception could take place at an appropriate
time of the year, for example, Epiphany, the Feast of Christ the King, or the
parish’s patronal feast in addition to the Easter Vigil.
One element of formation of the baptized, catechized Christian that should
not be overlooked is the importance of incorporating him or her into the
parish. Since the candidate would be preparing for Confirmation as well as
Eucharist, he or she would have a sponsor who could assist in welcoming the
candidate into the parish. This might also take place by inviting the
candidate to participate in the events listed in the “Faith in Action” section,
page 3-5.
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Catechumenate/Period of Formation
(12)
Hold Breaking Open the Word Sessions
Breaking Open the Word of God
While the RCIA text does not describe what is to take place after the dismissal that
follows the liturgy of the Word, many parishes gather the catechumens in another
place to “break open the Word.” During this time, the catechumens and candidates,
guided by team members, reflect on the Scripture readings and discuss how the
message applies to their lives.
The following resources provide reflections on the Scriptures, discussion questions
and practical ideas for applying the message of the readings to their lives. You may
wish to provide copies for the catechumens and candidates as well as those leading
the breaking open the Word. Bibles or missalettes with the readings in them are also
helpful so that participants can refer to the Scripture readings during their
discussions.
Participant Resources
A. A Catechumen’s Lectionary
Paulist Press
B. Bringing Home the Word
St. Anthony Messenger Press
C. Exploring the Sunday Readings (Monthly publication)
Twenty-Third Publications
D. Living the Word
World Library Publications
E. The Faith Connection (Weekly publication)
Resources for Christian Living (RCL)
F. The Word Among Us (Monthly publication)
The Word Among Us
G. The Word Into Life (Cycle A, B, C)
Liguori Publications
Leader Resources
H. Foundations in Faith Catechumenate Catechist Manual
(Cycle A, B, C)
RCL
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Dismissal Resources
These resources contain a dismissal formulary which draws on images from the
scriptures for each Sunday of Years A, B, and C.
I. Sunday Dismissals for the RCIA
Also contains an intercession which draws on images from the scriptures for
each Sunday.
Liturgical Press
J. We Send You Forth: Dismissals for the RCIA
Includes a CD-ROM which permits you to print the texts for use at Mass.
World Library Publications
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Catechumenate/Period of Formation
(13)
Communicate with Initiates, Sponsors and Team Members
a. Distribute a “Contact List”—Provide a list of team members, inquirers
and sponsors with telephone numbers and e-mail addresses once inquirers
have decided to participate in the Christian initiation process (generally after
a Rite of Acceptance.)
Be sure to ask inquirers to proofread the list and to note whether or not they
want their phone numbers/e-mail address distributed to other participants.
You may need to update this list from time to time as people join or leave
the initiation group.
b. Communicate about Upcoming Events—A schedule of Sunday Masses,
catechetical sessions, liturgical rites and other initiation-related events is
important so that participants know the general outline of the process and
what is expected of them.
Be sure to include plans for the period of Mystagogy and the neophyte year
on the schedule and point this out from the very beginning so that people
begin to realize that Easter is not the “end” of the process, but only the
beginning.
Show that there will be ongoing inquiry meetings, catechumenate meetings
and/or Breaking Open the Word sessions following the various rites. This
way, initiates will know that if they are not ready to participate in a rite, they
can still continue in formation and may be able to celebrate this rite at
another time of the year.
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(14)
Attend to Administrative Issues
a. Check With Catechumens and Candidates Regarding the Status of
Any Previous Marriages That Need To Be Adjudicated.
While individuals may delay beginning or completing the various steps of the
tribunal process, if an inquirer OR the inquirer’s spouse or fiancé(e) has been
previously married and is now in another marriage, it is necessary that any
previous marriages be adjudicated before an individual can celebrate the Rite of
Election or Call to Continuing Conversion. Use side 2 of Form RCIA—D
“Christian Initiation Information” (Appendix 1, page A-10) to keep track of the
various steps in the tribunal process.
b. Remind the Pastor to Request Faculties to Confirm Baptized Catholics
The Bishop is the ordinary Minister of Confirmation. A priest can validly confer
this sacrament only if he has the faculty to do so, either from the general law (i.e.
from having baptized an individual) or by way of a special grant from the
competent authority (CIC 882-883). “If during the celebration of the Easter
Vigil [or at any other time] a priest wishes to confirm a Catholic previously
baptized but uncatechized, and who has participated in the parish's RCIA
process, he must make this request in writing to the Vicar General in the Curia.
This delegation is required for the validity of the sacrament.” (Cf. Archdiocese of
Washington Sacramental Norms and Policies, p. 22).
This request should be made at least one month prior to the scheduled
celebration of Confirmation in order to allow a sufficient amount of time for the
Chancery to respond. If you do not receive a response within one week after
making the request, contact the Chancery or the Office of Christian Initiation.
FORM
Request for Faculties to Confirm Baptized Catholics (RCIA—F and
RCIA—G) Appendix 1, Page A-11 and A-12
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Catechumenate/Period of Formation
(15)
Determine Catechumens’/Candidates’ Readiness to Receive the
Sacraments of Initiation
"Do you wish to enter fully into the life of the Church through the
sacraments of baptism, confirmation, and the Eucharist?" (RCIA, n. 132)
Prior to the celebration of the Rite of Election or Call to Continuing Conversion, the
catechumen or candidate is expected to undergo “a conversion in mind and action,”
to develop “a sufficient acquaintance with Christian teaching” and “a spirit of faith
and charity.” (n. 120)
Christian discernment is the sorting out of God's call and is intimately connected to
the process of conversion - of responding and allowing God to change us.
Throughout the RCIA, the catechumen/ candidate and team are called upon to
discern the various movements and invitations from God to enter into the
commitment of sacramental initiation. Discernment is the coming to self-knowledge
and the decision that flows from this knowledge—in this case whether this particular
time is the right time to receive the initiation sacraments. Discernment is not a
logical systematic analysis nor is it simply a good feeling. The revelation of God's
will in this regard is often through interpersonal relationships that enlighten and
speak to the heart. As the team remarks on the catechumens’/candidates’
responsiveness to the promptings of the Spirit to live a gospel life, the
catechumens/candidates are enabled to notice the fruits of the Spirit such as joy and
peace.
In preparing for the Rite of Election and Call to Continuing Conversion, the
catechumens and candidates will need to know what is involved in the Rite and what
will be asked of them. A time of discernment is required to determine if they are
ready to make this next step. Such discernment needs to include questions
concerning their prayer life, inner adherence to the Church, a sense of the mystery of
salvation, a willingness to bear witness to the faith, to work actively with others to
spread the Gospel and build up the Church, to follow the inspirations of grace, to
practice love of neighbor even at the cost of self-renunciation—which will become
evident in a change in outlook and conduct (cf. RCIA, n. 75).
One way to provide a way to identify the changes that have taken place in the
catechumens’ and candidates’ lives is to plan a “Day of Discernment” several weeks
prior to the Rite of Election and Call to Continuing Conversion.
A Day of Discernment
Several weeks prior to this day, catechumens and candidates would meet with the
pastor, coordinator or other staff to discuss their readiness to participate in the
Rite of Election or Call to Continuing Conversion. This meeting is an
opportunity for the catechumen/candidate and the pastor/coordinator/staff
member to discuss their experience of the initiation process, and whether or not
the individual is ready to celebrate the sacraments of initiation. See page 3-16 for
a guide for this meeting.
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Sponsors/godparents of those who will participate in the Day of Discernment
are asked to prepare a brief testimony to what they have seen in the life of the
catechumen or candidate whom they are sponsoring.
In addition to the catechumens, candidates and their sponsors, the pastor, other
clergy, current and former team members, the entire parish community and
family members and friends of the catechumens and candidates are invited to
attend this event.
Outline of the Day
Arrange the chairs in two circles, with the catechumens, candidates and their
sponsors/godparents in the inner circle and others in the outer circle.
•
Morning Prayer
•
Introduction—The leader briefly explains the reason for discernment and
what will take place.
•
Each sponsor is invited to stand and give his or her prepared testimony.
•
Others who are present are invited to offer their testimony.
•
The catechumen or candidate is invited to share anything they would like to
say.
•
The leader asks if anyone has any reason why this person should not
celebrate the upcoming rite. In the absence of any objections, the leader
acknowledges that the community recommends the individual for the
upcoming rite.
•
Closing Prayer/Blessing
Other Ideas
Consider creating a flyer or a brief article in the bulletin each week with the
sponsor/godparent’s testimony about the elect/candidates. Or make a poster
with pictures, interviews and testimonies of the elect and candidates for the
church vestibule.
3-14
Discernment Prior to the Rite of Sending
and
Rite of Election/Call to Continuing Conversion
Before meeting with the initiate, it may be helpful to talk with the team and/or the sponsor or
godparent to ask their sense of the initiate’s readiness to take this step. Read the Rite of Christian
Initiation, n. 120 and the questions that are asked of the catechumens and candidates during the
Rite of Sending (n. 537-542) and the Rite of Election and Call to Continuing Conversion (n. 551557).
Use the following questions as a guide for a conversation with the initiate. As you talk, share how
you have seen God at work in his or her life during the initiation process. Be sure to explain that
while some individuals may be ready to celebrate the sacraments at this time, others may not, and
that if someone needs more time to learn about and live the Catholic way of life, that is fine.
If the individual is interested in celebrating these rites and you or others with whom you have spoken
have concerns about their readiness, explain your concerns and that it might in their best interest to
delay celebrating the sacraments for a period of time.
At the conclusion of your conversation, let the initiate know whether or not he or she will participate
in a Day of Discernment and/or the Rite of Sending and Rite of Election/Call to Continuing
Conversion.
Name
ˆ Catechumen ˆ Candidate for full communion ˆ Candidate for completion of initiation
Sponsor
Godparent
1) What has your experience of the initiation process been? What has affected you
most? What have you enjoyed most? What has challenged you most?
2) What kind of changes have you seen in yourself during this time?
3) What changes have you seen in your relationship with God or with your family or
friends during this time?
4) Tell me about how you pray.
3-15
5) How has your relationship with your sponsor been working out?
6) Tell me about some of the people in the parish whom you have come to know or
other experiences of the parish that you have had during the initiation process.
7) Do you understand what becoming a member of the Catholic Church entails? How
would you describe what being a Catholic/living a Catholic life means? Do you
understand that it is a lifelong commitment?
8) How comfortable are you reading the Scriptures? Do you have questions when you
hear the Scriptures proclaimed at Mass?
9) Do you feel that you have a good grasp of the teachings of the Church? Are there
any that you have questions about? What would you like to learn more about?
10) Are there any concerns that you have about becoming Catholic? Is there anything
that you would like to discuss more before being ready to take this step?
Explain to the initiate what will take place at the Rite of Sending (n. 537-542) and the Rite of
Election/Call to Continuing Conversion (n. 551-557), then ask:
11) Do you understand what is being asked of you in these rites? Are you prepared to
take this step?
12) Do you wish to be baptized/be received into full communion/complete the
sacraments of initiation?
3-16
Discernment for The Rite of Election and
Call to Continuing Conversion
Send the following letter to the catechumens and candidates inviting them to reflect on whether or
not they are ready to celebrate the Rite of Election or Call to Continuing Conversion
Dear Catechumen/Candidate,
We are approaching a time at which you can decide whether you wish to put in
your name to receive the sacraments and become initiated into the Catholic Church.
As you consider this question, we ask you to contemplate the following questions.
1. Have you developed a habit of daily prayer? Is your way of praying any different
than from when you began RCIA?
2. Have you been diligent about joining us for Sunday Mass? What has kept you
away?
3. Have you kept up with the readings for each session? Have you thoughtfully
tried to consider what you believe on each topic? Are there areas of faith or
teachings that you still find hard to understand or accept?
4. Have you perceived any moral struggles in your life that have come from our
discussions? Do you understand and accept the Church's teachings on morality
and social issues? Are there areas in which you can't accept this viewpoint?
5. Have you been involved in service to those in need? Are you more aware and
willing to reach out to others than you were when you first joined us?
6. Do you feel connected to parish/church life? In which activities have you taken
part? What do you think motivates the people you have met? Do you read the
bulletin and the weekly Catholic paper? Are you interested in Church news?
7. Have you grown in your understanding of and desire for the sacraments? How
has your relationship with God/Christ changed since you began the initiation
process?
After reflecting on these questions, please let me know of your own discernment
and desire to receive the sacraments or to wait a while. If you decide that you would
like to take this step, the Church has a responsibility to attest to the fact that you are
ready to take this step, so I may want to meet with you to discuss your decision. If
you decide that you would like to wait a while and revisit this question at a later date,
that is fine and the right decision if you are not sure at this time.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Christian Initiation Coordinator
3-17
(16)
Prepare for the Rite of Sending
The Rite of Sending offers the parish community an opportunity to acknowledge the
spiritual progress the catechumens and candidates have made, express approval of
their election or recognition, and send them forth with assurance of the parish's care
and support. In the Archdiocese of Washington, the Book of the Elect is signed at
this rite in preparation for Rite of Election when it will be presented to the Cardinal.
a. Review the RCIA Text for this Rite
See the RCIA text for the instructions for the Rite of Sending Catechumens
(n. 106ff), the Rite of Sending Candidates (n. 434ff) or the Combined Rite (n.
530ff.)
b. Prepare for this Rite
Arrange a meeting with the pastor and/or the priest who will be presiding at
these liturgies as well as musicians and other liturgical ministers (e.g. lectors)
who will be affected at least six weeks prior to the celebration of the Rites in
order to discuss how the rite will be celebrated. Some questions for you to
consider are listed on the following pages.
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Liturgy
Preparation
Combined Rite
of Sending Catechumens
and Candidates
n. 530 ff
Please note:
Rite of Sending Catechumens ONLY: n. 106 ff; Rite of Sending Candidates ONLY: n. 434 ff
Questions to Prepare for the Rite
BEFORE THE RITE
1. Will the catechumens/candidates be in the entrance procession? Will the Book of the Elect
be in the procession?
2. Where will the catechumens and candidates be seated?
3. How will you inform the parish that the Rite of Sending will be taking place?
Announcements could be placed in the bulletin for several weeks beforehand and/or the coordinator
or celebrant could make a brief announcement at the beginning of the Mass.
4. How will a distinction be made between the catechumens and candidates in the Rite?
For example, gather the catechumens around the baptismal font and the candidates around the altar.
PRESENTATION OF THE CATECHUMENS
5. Who will present the catechumens?
The Christian initiation coordinator, deacon or a representative of the initiation ministers or the
parish?
AFFIRMATION BY THE GODPARENTS AND THE ASSEMBLY
6. What questions will you use?
The questions given at n. 538 or adaptations of these questions?
7. Will testimony be given? If so, by whom?
RCIA n. 9.3 suggests that the community “should be sure to give honest and carefully considered
testimony about the catechumens.” Could the sponsors or other members of the community offer a
brief reflection on the progress the catechumens have made?
8. How will the entire assembly be asked to express approval?
There is no text given in n. 538. One option is to use the “Affirmation by the Godparents and the
Assembly” from the Rite of Election, n. 131.
SIGNING OF THE BOOK OF THE ELECT
9. Will the Book of the Elect be signed at the Rite of Sending or at the Rite of Election?
In the Archdiocese of Washington, the Books are to be signed at the Rite of Sending.
10. What will be said to introduce the signing of the Book of the Elect?
There is no text given in the RCIA text. Here is one suggestion for what the celebrant might say:
“My dear catechumens, the Book of Revelation makes reference to a ‘Book of Life,’ in which are
inscribed the names of those who have chosen to follow the Lord Jesus and be baptized.
Those of us who are already baptized, as Catholics or in other denominations, have had our names
“written” in the Book of Life at our baptism. I now invite you to come forward and sign this Book,
which we call the Book of the Elect as a sign of your desire to be numbered among the elect, who
are preparing for Baptism.”
3-19
11. What music will be used while the books are being signed?
Sing a song or psalm response that has been used throughout the initiation process.
12. Where will the elect go after they have signed the Book?
Will they return to their pews or move to another place while the candidates are recognized?
PRESENTATION OF THE CANDIDATES
13. Who will call the candidates’ names?
14. Where will the candidates stand?
If the catechumens have not returned to their pews, be sure to make a visual distinction between
them and the candidates.
AFFIRMATION BY THE GODPARENTS AND THE ASSEMBLY
15. What questions will be asked?
No questions are asked of the candidates, but the sentences in n. 541 could be turned into questions.
16. Will testimony be given? If so, by whom?
17. How will the fact that the candidates are already baptized be recognized?
Since the candidates for full communion have already been baptized, they do not sign their names in
the Book of the Elect. However, as a way of recognizing the candidates’ baptism, at this point, the
celebrant might say, “I now invite the candidates to place their baptismal certificates on the Book of
the Elect as a reminder of the Baptism which they have already received.”
INTERCESSIONS FOR THE CATECHUMENS AND CANDIDATES
18. Will you include intercessions for the whole Church?
There is an option to include the general intercessions at this point. If the ritual has taken some time,
it might be wise to do so.
DISMISSAL OF THE CATECHUMENS
19. Who will go with them to break open the word and reflect on the rite?
20. Will you do anything different today before the Rite of Election?
Some parishes hold a potluck following this liturgy prior to departing for the Rite of Election and
Call to Continuing Conversion so that the catechumens and candidates do not have to leave the
parish and return.
LITURGY OF THE EUCHARIST
21. The profession of Faith may be omitted and intercessions combined with earlier ones.
Checklist
Reserved Pews
Baptismal certificates for the
candidates (See question 17, above.)
Book of the Elect prepared with
proper page marked and dated.
Intercessions for Reader
Pen to sign the Book (and an extra.)
Script for Presider, Musicians, etc.
Lectern on which to sign the Book
Congratulations Cards from team,
clergy, intercessors, etc.
Worship Aids for the congregation
Lists of names to be called
(Catechumens and Candidates)
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Catechumenate/Period of Formation
(17)
Prepare for the Rite of Election and Call to Continuing Conversion
a. The Date of the Celebration
Each year, the Rite of Election and Call to Continuing Conversion is
celebrated on the First Sunday of Lent. The current practice is to hold two
celebrations, one at 3:00 p.m. and one at 5:30 p.m. at the Basilica of the
National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Northeast Washington.
Parishes are assigned on a rotating basis to the two liturgies according to the
deanery in which they are located.
b. Send the List of Catechumens/Candidates to the Coordinator of
Christian Initiation at the Archdiocese
A mailing is sent in December or January each year with the registration
forms and information about the Rite of Election. If you do not receive this
by the end of January, call (301) 853-5335. You can register online
(instructions are included in the mailing), by fax or mail.
If someone in your group has a special need (e.g. wheelchair access, signlanguage interpreter, large print materials, etc.) please contact the
Coordinator of Christian Initiation at (301) 853-5335 at least two weeks prior
to the Rite.
c. Review the Information and Resource Packet
The mailing from the Archdiocese will contain further instructions and
resources to prepare for the Rite, including directions to the Shrine,
information about parking and a checklist of things to do before the Rite and
on the day of the rite.
d. Discuss the Rite of Election and Call to Continuing Conversion with
Catechumens, Candidates, Godparents and Sponsors
Discuss the following aspects of the Rite so that the catechumens and
candidates can participate more readily:
• One coordinator has remarked that the Rite of Election “completes the
catechesis on the Church” for her catechumens and candidates. Take
this opportunity to discuss who the Cardinal Archbishop and the
auxiliary bishops of our Archdiocese are and why this rite is celebrated
with catechumens and candidates from across the Archdiocese. This
liturgy is a gathering of the Church of Washington with all of its rich
diversity. Discuss the many different cultures that will be represented
and explain that the some of the readings and other parts of the rite
will be in languages other than English as a way of recognizing and
including these many cultures.
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Christian Initiation Coordinator Guide
• Use the Scripture readings that will be proclaimed as part of a prayer
service prior to the Rite and provide them to the catechumens and
candidate for their reflection.
• Help the catechumens to see God’s work in their lives. It is God who
calls, God who provides grace for the journey and when the bishop
calls the elect to the sacraments, he does so in God’s name.
• Explain that the catechumens’ names will be called and that the
catechumens and their godparents should follow the instructions to
come forward that will be given during the Rite.
• Inform the catechumens, godparents and sponsors the questions that
they will be asked so that they may reflect on them and answer them
whole-heartedly.
• Explain to the candidates that their names will not be called
individually and that they and their sponsors should come forward
when their parish name is announced. (N.B. All names received by the
response deadline will be printed in the program for the Rite and in the
Catholic Standard the week before or after the Rite.)
• Most importantly, celebrate this day as an important moment in the
catechumens’ and candidates’ journey.
e. Reflect on the Rite of Election and Call to Continuing Conversion with
elect and candidates.
Spend time as you drive home from the rite or when you meet in the week
following the rite to discuss the initiates’ experiences. Discussion questions
are included in the Resource Packet sent by the Office of Christian Initiation.
3-22
PURIFICATION AND
ENLIGHTENMENT PERIOD
Jesus…said to [the woman], "Everyone who drinks this water will be
thirsty again; but whoever drinks the water I shall give will never
thirst; the water I shall give will become in him a spring of water
welling up to eternal life." The woman said to him, "Sir, give me this
water, so that I may not be thirsty or have to keep coming here to
draw water."
John 4:5-15
(18)
Assist the Elect and Candidates to Prepare for the Sacraments of
Initiation
The purpose Lent is for the Elect and Candidates to experience a fuller participation
in the paschal mystery, a deeper conversion, and an encounter with Jesus as Savior.
The Church aids the Elect and Candidates toward this goal through formation that
takes place around the liturgical rites and traditional disciplines of this season.
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults provides general directives regarding the
preparation that takes place prior to the Sacraments of Initiation. The guidelines for
the Period of Purification and Enlightenment (n. 138-149) describe this period as
one of “intense spiritual preparation, consisting more in interior reflection than in
catechetical instruction.” (n. 138.) In this period, the Scrutinies and Presentations of
the Creed and Lord’s Prayer are celebrated in final preparation for baptism. The
Penitential Rite and the Sacrament of Reconciliation are celebrated for those who are
preparing to come into full communion with the Church.
Thus, “in the liturgy and liturgical catechesis of Lent…
I. the reminder of baptism already received or the preparation for its
reception as well as
II. the theme of repentance…
…renew the entire community along with those being prepared to celebrate the
paschal mystery.” (RCIA, n. 138)
The systematic catechesis of the catechumenate should be completed before the Rite
of Election or Call to Continuing Conversion. During the period of purification and
enlightenment, the Elect and Candidates participate in the “dying” of Lent in
anticipation of “rising” in the Easter sacraments. One way to change the focus
during this period from catechesis to spiritual preparation is to alter the way that the
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Christian Initiation Coordinator Guide
formation sessions are conducted. Here are several ideas for making this period a
retreat, not just an opportunity for “a little more catechesis.”
1) Meet in a different place, at a different time, with different environment,
e.g. lighting, prayer space, etc.
2) Have a different format when you meet for reflection sessions.
3) Have different leaders for this period (a P & E Team).
4) Serve simpler food, e.g. pretzels (which have their origins as Lenten food.)
5) Use a different prayer style exclusively for this period.
6) Spend more time in quiet reflection/journaling, etc.
7) Focus on scriptural images and ritual elements (e.g. laying on of hands)
from the liturgical rites.
8) Incorporate the Book of the Elect into the church environment and/or at
initiation sessions during Lent.
It might also be helpful to distribute information to sponsors about what to expect,
how best to assist Elect and Candidates to prepare for the sacraments.
The following pages suggest resources and ideas for the formation that takes place
during this period.
I.
The Preparation for Baptism or the Reminder of Baptism Already
Received.
Preparation for the liturgical rites and reflection on the Scripture,
prayers and ritual actions of these rites are the focus for the Elect and
Candidates during this period (See the table, Journey To Easter, page
G-56.) The following resources will aid in this reflection.
A. Foundations In Faith: Purification and Enlightenment
Resource Book
RCL
PART ONE of this resource provides an overview of the Period of Purification
and Enlightenment, a discussion of discernment, reminders about the
distinctions between the Elect and Candidates and ways to assist the parish to
prepare for the Easter sacraments and journey with the Elect and Candidates
during this period.
PART TWO contains summaries of the Scripture readings, explanations of
significant images from the Scriptures, “Dismissal Reflections” and “Extended
Reflections” for each of the Sundays of Lent, Holy Thursday and Good Friday
for Year A, B, and C. The “Reflections” guide the Elect and/or Candidates in
reflecting on the liturgical rite that was celebrated at Mass.
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Purification and Enlightenment
Part Two also contains outlines for sessions to prepare for the Penitential Rite
and each of the Scrutinies, two outlines for retreats during this time and a Holy
Saturday Prayer Service.
The APPENDIX contains masters with the reflection and discussion questions
for each of the Sundays of Lent and resources for the Candidates’ celebration of
the sacrament of Penance: an outline of the Rite, with an Act of Contrition, an
examination of conscience and a prayer of thanksgiving.
B. Journey of Faith
Liguori Publications
The “Lent” handouts from this series are an excellent resource to give to
participants to assist them in preparing for the liturgical rites and the season of
Lent. They look different from the handouts for the other periods, which gives
a sense of the change of focus in these forty days.
L1.
What is Lent?
L2.
Saying Yes to Jesus (Preparation for the Rite of Election)
L3.
Take a Look (Preparation for the Scrutinies)
L4.
The Nicene Creed
L5.
The Way of the Cross
L6.
The Lord’s Prayer
L7.
The Meaning of Holy Week
L8.
Catechumenate Day Retreat
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Christian Initiation Coordinator Guide
Journey To Easter
This table lists the Liturgical Rites that are celebrated during the Period of Purification and
Enlightenment and the preparation and reflection that should take place in order to experience these
rites more fully. Note that the preparation for and reflection on all of the rites are listed for elect
and candidates, in light of the fact that in many cases both groups participate in formation together.
However, the group that does not participate in the rite has [brackets] around this entry. The rites
that are properly celebrated by each group are listed in bold type under the heading for the group.
Elect (Not baptized)
Candidates (Baptized)
Several Weeks before Lent
Discernment to determine
readiness to celebrate the Rite of
Election
Discernment to determine
readiness to celebrate the Call to
Continuing Conversion
The Week before Lent
Prepare for the Rite of Sending and
Rite of Election
Prepare for the Rite of Sending and
the Call to Continuing Conversion
Rite of Sending
Rite of Sending
Reflection on the Rite of Sending
Reflection on the Rite of Sending
Rite of Election
Call to Continuing Conversion
Reflection on the Rite of Election
Reflection on the Call to
Continuing Conversion
1st Sunday of Lent
1st Week of Lent
2nd Sunday of Lent
[Preparation for the Penitential
Rite]
Preparation for the Penitential Rite
Penitential Rite
[Reflection on the Penitential Rite]
Reflection on the Penitential Rite
2nd Week of Lent
Preparation for 1st Scrutiny
[Preparation for 1st Scrutiny]
3rd Sunday of Lent
1st Scrutiny
Gospel: The Woman at the Well
Reflection on the 1st Scrutiny
3rd Week of Lent
[Reflection on the 1st Scrutiny]
Presentation of the Creed
Presentation of the Creed
Preparation for the 2nd Scrutiny
[Preparation for the 2nd Scrutiny]
4-4
(if applicable)
Purification and Enlightenment
Elect (Not baptized)
4th Sunday of Lent
2nd Scrutiny
Gospel: The Man Born Blind
Reflection on the 2nd Scrutiny
4th Week of Lent
Preparation for the 3rd Scrutiny
5th Sunday of Lent
3rd Scrutiny
Gospel: The Raising of Lazarus
Reflection on the 3rd Scrutiny
5th Week of Lent
Presentation of the Lord’s
Prayer
Candidates (Baptized)
[Reflection on the 2nd Scrutiny]
[Preparation for the 3rd Scrutiny]
[Reflection on the 3rd Scrutiny]
Presentation of the Lord’s
Prayer (if applicable)
Sacrament of Reconciliation
5th Week of Lent
(Parish communal penance service or at some other
time during Lent)
Palm Sunday
Reflection on the Scriptures
Reflection on the Scriptures
Holy Thursday
Reflection on the Scriptures
Reflection on the Scriptures
Good Friday
Reflection on the Scriptures
Reflection on the Scriptures
Holy Saturday
Preparation Rites
Preparation Rites (if applicable)
Easter Vigil
Sacraments of Baptism,
Confirmation and Eucharist
Sacraments of Confirmation and
Eucharist
Period of Mystagogy
Reflection on the experience of
the sacraments
Reflection on the experience of
the sacraments
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Christian Initiation Coordinator Guide
II. The Theme of Repentance.
Help the Elect and Candidates participate in the disciplines of Lent—prayer,
fasting, and almsgiving or charity—in order to reinforce the idea of
purification in preparation to celebrate the sacraments. Ask sponsors to
invite them to parish Lenten events and suggest practices for personal and
family use.
Prayer Ideas:
Encourage Elect and Candidates to…
Attend weekday Mass or the Stations of the Cross.
Spend time in front of the Blessed Sacrament.
Begin or increase family prayer in the home.
Meditate on the Lord’s Prayer or the Creed.
Fasting Ideas:
Encourage Elect and Candidates to…
Attend a parish Lenten meal or other community opportunities
for fasting.
Choose a Lenten practice which can be either penitential (i.e.
“giving something up”) or charitable (i.e. “adding a virtuous
practice.”)
Find ways to practice fasting as a family, e.g. having a smaller
meal, limiting sweets, etc. fasting from television; fasting from
unkind comments toward one another.
Almsgiving/Charity Ideas:
Encourage Elect and Candidates to…
Give of their time to assist in a local service outreach
opportunity.
Drop money saved by fasting in the poor box at Church.
Make an extra donation to their favorite charity.
Communicate with relatives or those with whom they are
estranged.
Spend time discovering what they can do to assist the poor, the
homeless, the unborn.
4-6
Purification and Enlightenment
(19)
Prepare for the Penitential Rite for Candidates and the Scrutinies
for the Elect.
“The scrutinies…are rites for self-searching and repentance and…are meant to uncover, then heal all
that is weak, defective, or sinful in the hearts of the elect; to bring out, then strengthen all that is
upright, strong and good.” (n. 141)
The Scrutinies and Penitential Rite are celebrated on the Sundays of Lent. Keep in
mind that certain rites are intended for each group preparing for initiation and
maintain this distinction when preparing for and celebrating the Rites.
The Penitential Rite: If Candidates are preparing to be received into full
communion at Easter, the Penitential Rite is celebrated on the Second Sunday of
Lent in preparation for the sacraments of Reconciliation, Confirmation and the
Eucharist. If Candidates will be received at another time of the year, this rite is
celebrated several weeks prior to their reception.
The Scrutinies: The following rites are celebrated for the elect as they prepare for
baptism:
Third Sunday of Lent—1st Scrutiny
Fourth Sunday of Lent—2nd Scrutiny
Fifth Sunday of Lent—3rd Scrutiny
a. Review the RCIA Text for these Rites.
See the RCIA text for the guidelines and rubrics for the Scrutinies and the
Penitential Rite. Paragraph numbers are listed on the following pages.
b. Prepare for the Rites.
Arrange a meeting with the pastor and/or other priest who will be presiding at
these liturgies as well as musicians and other liturgical ministers (e.g. lectors) who
will be affected at least six weeks prior to the celebration of the Rites in order to
discuss how the rite will be celebrated. Some questions for you to consider are
listed on the following pages.
4-7
Liturgy
Preparation
The Penitential Rite
(for Candidates only)
RCIA, n. 459ff
Questions to Prepare for the Rite
BEFORE THE RITE
1. How will the Penitential Rite be celebrated? As a Liturgy of the Word or at a Mass?
2. How will you inform the parish that the Penitential Rite will be taking place?
Announcements could be placed in the bulletin for several weeks beforehand and/or the coordinator
or celebrant could make a brief announcement at the beginning of the Mass.
3. Where will the candidates and their sponsors be seated?
LITURGY OF THE WORD
4. What readings will be used?
If this rite takes place on the 2nd Sunday of Lent, the readings for that Sunday (Year A, B or C) are
used. If the rite takes place at another time, these or other readings may be used.
INVITATION TO SILENT PRAYER
5. Where will you celebrate the Rite? At the front of the church? Down the center aisle?
6. What liturgical actions, if any, will you incorporate into the Rite?
Will the candidates and their sponsors remain in their pews or come to another location in the
Church? Will they kneel or stand with bowed heads? (cf. RCIA, n. 468)
7. Will you compose a text for the celebrant to use to address the assembly and candidates?
Though the rite directs that this take place, no specific text is given. (cf. RCIA, n. 468)
8. How long will the celebrant allow for silent prayer?
INTERCESSIONS FOR THE CANDIDATES
9. Will you write any intercessions that take into account the candidate’s specific needs and
circumstances? Invite the candidates to write down specific spiritual needs at a time of reflection
and prayer before the rite. Then craft these needs into intercessions for this rite.
10. How and when will the intercessions be presented?
The intercessions for the candidates may be offered, then additional general intercessions may be
offered after the rite is concluded. Or all may be offered at this time.
PRAYER OVER THE CANDIDATES
11. Which option will you use for the Prayer over the Candidates, “A” or “B”?
The “A” option incorporates images from the Transfiguration gospel reading.
12. How and where will the laying on of hands take place?
Will the candidates and their sponsors come to the celebrant or will he go to them?
13. Will you sing a psalm to conclude the rite? See the final rubric of RCIA, n. 470 for suggestions.
14. If the elect are present will they be dismissed? Will the candidates be invited to join them?
Where will they go? Who will lead them in reflecting on this rite?
Checklist
Reserved Pews
Intercessions for the Lector
Script for Presider, Musicians, etc.
Worship aid for the congregation
4-8
Liturgy
Preparation
The Scrutinies
(for the Elect only)
RCIA, n. 141-146; 1st Scrutiny: n. 150ff;
2nd Scrutiny: n. 164ff; 3rd Scrutiny: n. 171ff
Questions to Prepare for the Rite
BEFORE THE RITE
1. When will the Scrutinies be celebrated?
At a different Mass each week, or at the same Mass?
2. How will you inform the parish that these Rites will be taking place?
Announcements could be placed in the bulletin for several weeks beforehand and/or the coordinator
or celebrant could make a brief announcement at the beginning of the Mass.
3. Where will the elect and their godparents be seated?
LITURGY OF THE WORD
4. Which readings will be proclaimed? How will the lector(s) and homilist be informed?
The readings from Year A are recommended for the Mass at which these rites are celebrated, even if
it is Year B or C. Some parishes choose to use these readings at all Masses each year.
INVITATION TO SILENT PRAYER
5. Where will you celebrate the Rite?
At the front of the church? Down the center aisle?
6. What liturgical actions, if any, will you incorporate into the Rite?
Will the elect and their godparents remain in their pews or will they come to another location in the
church? Will they kneel or stand with bowed heads? (cf. RCIA, n. 152)
7. Will you compose a text for the celebrant to use to address the assembly and elect?
Though the rite directs that this take place, no specific text is given. (cf. RCIA, n. 152)
8. How long will the celebrant allow for silent prayer?
INTERCESSIONS FOR THE ELECT
9. Which intercessions will you use: Option “A” or “B” or a combination?
The “B” intercessions incorporate images from the Year A gospel reading.
10. Will you write intercessions that take into account the specific needs of the elect?
Invite the elect to name specific needs at a time of reflection and prayer prior to the scrutiny, then
use these to write additional intercessions for this rite.
11. How and when will you present the intercessions?
The intercessions for the elect may be offered, then additional general intercessions may be offered
after the elect are dismissed. Or all may be offered at this time.
EXORCISM
12. Which option will you use for the exorcism, “A” or “B”?
13. How and where will the laying on of hands take place?
Will the elect come to the celebrant or will he go to them?
4-9
14. Will you sing a psalm to conclude the rite?
See the final rubric of RCIA, n. 154 for suggestions.
DISMISSAL OF THE ELECT
15. Will you dismiss the elect? Will the candidates be invited to join them?
Where will they go? Who will lead them in reflecting on the Scriptures and ritual of the scrutiny?
Checklist
Reserved Pews
Worship Aids for the congregation
Intercessions for Lector
Script for Presider, Musicians, etc.
Lectionary prepared with correct
readings (Year A or other.)
4-10
Purification and Enlightenment
(20) Prepare for Presentations of the Creed and the Lord’s Prayer
"The Church lovingly entrusts to [the elect] the Creed and the Lord's Prayer...the heart of the
Church's faith and prayer…in order to enlighten the elect…The Creed, as it recalls the wonderful
deeds of God for the salvation of the human race, suffuses the vision of the elect with the sure light
of faith…The Lord’s Prayer fills them with a deeper realization of the new spirit of adoption by which
they will call God their Father." (RCIA, n. 147)
a. Decide who will participate in the Presentations.
The Presentations are made to the Elect and for Candidates who do not have
the practice of reciting the Creed or praying the Lord’s Prayer (cf. NS, n. 31).
b. What is the purpose of the Presentations?
The Presentations bring light to the elect’s mind and heart as they come to a
greater knowledge of the truths of the Faith (the Creed) and a deeper realization of their dignity as the Father's adopted children (the Lord’s Prayer.)
For those who are baptized, the Presentation of the Creed recalls the faith
attested to at baptism and the responsibility of deepening that faith. The
Presentation of the Lord’s Prayer reminds the baptized that they are already
children of God through baptism.
c. When are the Presentations made?
The Presentation of the Creed is to take place at a weekly session or weekday
Mass during the Third week of Lent (cf. RCIA 148). The Presentation of the
Lord's Prayer is to take place at a weekly session or weekday Mass during the
fifth week of Lent (cf. RCIA 149). One or both of the presentations can be
celebrated during the catechumenate period to mark a catechumen’s progress
in formation.
d. What takes place at the Presentations?
See RCIA, n. 157-163 and 178-184. The presentations involve a Liturgy of
the Word with readings that explain the meaning and importance of the
Creed or Lord's Prayer. Verbal proclamations of these prayers by the
community comprise an important part of the rite. The Elect may receive the
Creed and Lord's Prayer in some form (e.g. a certificate.) Questions to
consider as you prepare for these rites are listed on the following pages.
RESOURCES
Certificates with the Creed and Lord’s Prayer are
available from Liturgical Commission Publishings.
Liguori publishes two pamphlets, The Community
Believes: An Introduction to the Creed for RCIA and The
Community Prays: An Introduction to the Lord’s Prayer for
RCIA, that offer reflections on these treasures of the
faith for the initiates.
4-11
Liturgy
Preparation
The Presentation
of the Creed
RCIA, n. 147-149
Presentation of the Creed: n. 157ff
Please Note:
The Presentations are to be celebrated by the elect and by uncatechized candidates for whom either
presentation seems appropriate. (Cf. RCIA, n. 407)
Questions to Prepare for the Rite
BEFORE THE RITE
1. When will the Presentation be celebrated?
The rite is preferably celebrated at a weekday parish Mass in the third week of Lent. (Cf. RCIA, n.
157.) It could also take place at the catechetical session within Mass or a Liturgy of the Word.
2. How will you inform the parish that this Rite will be taking place?
Announcements could be placed in the bulletin for several weeks beforehand and/or the coordinator
or celebrant could make a brief announcement at the beginning of the Mass.
3. Who will participate in the Presentation?
In addition to the elect, uncatechized candidates may participate in this rite.
4. Where will the elect, their godparents, the candidates and their sponsors be seated?
LITURGY OF THE WORD
5. Which readings will be proclaimed? How will the lectors and homilist be informed?
Specific readings are suggested for this rite cf. RCIA, n. 58, which replace the weekday readings.
PRESENTATION OF THE CREED
6. Where will the elect and candidates stand when they are called forward? (RCIA, n. 160)
In their pews? At the front of the church? Down the center aisle?
7. Which Creed will be used?
You may use the Apostles’ Creed or the Nicene Creed.
8. How will the assembly know to join the celebrant in reciting the Creed?
The rite instructs the assembly to join the celebrant but no specific text is given. A sentence such as
“After I begin the Creed, I invite the rest of the assembly to join me” would suffice.
9. Will the elect and candidates receive a copy of the Creed?
Though there is no explicit instruction in the rite, a copy of the Creed may be given to the elect and
candidates.
10. How will the Creed be given to the elect and candidates?
The celebrant or other minister could say the following sentence or other similar words while
presenting the Creed to each person: “This is our Faith. This is the Faith of the Church. May you be
proud to profess it in Christ Jesus, our Lord.”
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PRAYER OVER THE ELECT (AND CANDIDATES)
11. How will the candidates be included in this prayer?
If candidates participate in this rite, you will need to modify this prayer (RCIA, n. 161) to include
them.
DISMISSAL OF THE ELECT
12. Will the elect be dismissed? Will the candidates be invited to join them?
Where will they go? Who will lead Breaking Open the Word?
Checklist
Reserved pews
Script for presider, musicians, etc.
Worship aid for the congregation
Lectionary prepared with the readings
Copies of the Creed to present to the
elect (and candidates)
4-13
Liturgy
Preparation
The Presentation
of the Lord’s Prayer
RCIA, n. 147-149
Presentation of the Lord’s Prayer: n. 178ff
Please Note:
The Presentations are to be celebrated by the elect and by uncatechized candidates for whom either
presentation seems appropriate. (Cf. RCIA, n. 407)
Questions to Prepare for the Rite
BEFORE THE RITE
1. When will the Presentation be celebrated?
The rite is preferably celebrated at a weekday parish Mass in the fifth week of Lent. (Cf. RCIA, n.
178) It could also take place at the catechetical session within Mass or a Liturgy of the Word.
2. How will you inform the parish that this Rite will be taking place?
Announcements could be placed in the bulletin for several weeks beforehand and/or the coordinator
or celebrant could make a brief announcement at the beginning of the Mass.
3. Who will participate in the Presentation?
In addition to the elect, uncatechized candidates may participate in this rite.
4. Where will the elect and their godparents, the candidates and their sponsors be seated?
LITURGY OF THE WORD AND PRESENTATION OF THE LORD’S PRAYER
5. Which readings will be proclaimed? How will the lectors and homilist be informed?
Specific readings are suggested for this rite cf. RCIA, n. 179, which replace the weekday readings.
6. Where will the elect and candidates stand when they are called forward? (Cf. RCIA, n. 180)
In their pews? At the front of the church? Down the center aisle?
7. Will the elect and candidates receive a copy of the Lord’s Prayer?
Though there is no explicit instruction to do so in the rite, a copy of the Lord’s Prayer may be given
to the elect and candidates.
8. How will the Lord’s Prayer be given to the elect and candidates?
The celebrant or other minister could say the following sentence or other similar words while
presenting the Lord’s Prayer to each person: “Receive the Lord’s Prayer that you might pray as Jesus
taught us.”
PRAYER OVER THE ELECT
9. How will the candidates be included in this prayer?
If candidates participate in this rite, you will need to modify this prayer (n. 182) to include them.
DISMISSAL OF THE ELECT
10. Will the elect be dismissed? Where will they go? Who will lead Breaking Open the Word?
Checklist
Reserved pews
Script for presider, musicians, etc.
Worship aid for the congregation
Lectionary prepared with the readings
Copies of the Lord’s Prayer to present to
elect (and candidates)
4-14
Purification and Enlightenment
(21)
Prepare for the Sacrament of Reconciliation for the Candidates
"The candidate, according to his or her own conscience, should make a confession of sins
beforehand, first informing the confessor that he or she is about to be received into full communion.
Any confessor who is lawfully approved may hear the candidate's confession" (RCIA, n. 482).
Prior to the Candidates' reception of the sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist
at the Easter Vigil, they are to receive catechesis and preparation for the Sacrament
of Penance or Reconciliation.
Note that only the Candidates - those already baptized - go to confession at this
time. The Elect do not make a sacramental confession because they are not yet
baptized - the gateway to all the other sacraments - although they may be encouraged
to receive spiritual direction and a blessing.
IDEAS
Candidates could participate in a parish communal penance
service during Lent or at another time of the year. This
experience will help them reflect on the communal dimension of
sin and forgiveness.
Appointments can be scheduled with a priest for individual
confession, thus allowing more time for spiritual direction.
Candidates can be guided to avail themselves of the sacrament of
penance at the regular parish scheduled times, perhaps meeting
with the sponsor and/or a team member to answer questions and
provide support.
The Sacrament of Reconciliation can be celebrated at a place of
pilgrimage such as the Basilica of the National Shrine of the
Immaculate Conception or the Franciscan monastery. It would
be advised to let the confessor know this is a first confession.
4-15
Liturgy
Preparation
The Sacrament of
Reconciliation/Confession
Cf. RCIA, n. 482 and National Statutes, n. 36
Please note:
The Sacrament of Penance is only celebrated by the Candidates before the Rite of Reception/Easter Vigil.
The Elect will celebrate this sacrament at some time following their baptism.
Questions to Prepare for the Rite
BEFORE THE RITE
1. When will the Sacrament of Reconciliation be celebrated for the Candidates?
Candidates may celebrate this sacrament at a parish communal penance service, as part of a Lenten
retreat, at a regular parish confession time or by making an appointment with a priest.
2. When will the Sacrament of Reconciliation be celebrated for the Newly Baptized
The newly baptized will celebrate this sacrament at an appropriate time following their baptism.
They may do so at a regular parish confession time or by making an appointment with a priest.
Another idea is to hold a special communal celebration with the Christian initiation group or the
entire parish in the Easter season or some time in the Neophyte Year.
IF AT A PARISH COMMUNAL PENANCE SERVICE
3. Will there be priests specifically designated for the candidates?
Some candidates may spend a considerable amount of time celebrating this sacrament for the first
time. It may be a good idea to designate one or two priests to hear their confessions in consideration
for others from the parish.
4. Will the candidates (and their sponsors) be seated together and/or in a special place?
The support of sponsors and other initiation team members might make some candidates more
comfortable celebrating this sacrament.
5. Will the elect attend a communal celebration of this sacrament prior to the Easter Vigil?
It may be beneficial to invite the elect to attend a communal celebration prior to the Easter Vigil so
that they may join in the liturgy of the Word and the examination of conscience, and observe the
celebration of the sacrament. They DO NOT celebrate the sacrament, however since they have not
yet been baptized.
ASSISTING CANDIDATES AND THE NEWLY BAPTIZED TO CELEBRATE THIS SACRAMENT
6. How will you aid the candidates and newly baptized to prepare for and celebrate the
sacrament?
Incorporate some or all of the following ideas in the catechesis on this sacrament:
• Provide an examination of conscience.
• Show the elect and candidates the reconciliation room/confessional.
• Walk through the rite, explaining the various parts.
• Create a sheet with the Act of Contrition and an outline of the rite for penitents to take with them.
• Explain the seal of confession.
Checklist
Reserved Pews
Examinations of Conscience
Outline of the Rite/Act of Contrition, etc.
4-16
Purification and Enlightenment
(22) Prepare for the Preparation Rites on Holy Saturday
The Church invites the Elect and Candidates to spend Holy Saturday in prayer
and reflection. If possible, they are to observe a fast. (Suggest different kinds of
fasts on this day for the initiates: fasting from food, fasting from TV and radio,
fasting from shopping.) The Preparation Rites provide an opportunity for the
initiates to gather for prayer as they prepare for the sacraments of initiation.
a. Review the RCIA Text for the Preparation Rites.
See the RCIA text for the guidelines and the rubrics n. 185ff.
b. Prepare for the celebration of the Preparation Rites
Arrange a meeting with the pastor and/or other clergy who will preside at
this liturgy as well as musicians and others (e.g. liturgy committee,
representatives of liturgical ministries) prior to the celebration of this rite in
order to discuss how the rite will be celebrated. Some questions for you to
consider are listed on the following pages.
c. Plan other prayer/reflection opportunities for Holy Saturday
In addition to the Preparation Rites, you may wish to celebrate some or all of
Morning Prayer or the Office of Readings for Holy Saturday or you could
hold a “retreat morning/day.”
RESOURCES
The website www.ebreviary.com is a subscription
service that provides PDF files of the liturgy of the
hours in booklet format for printing and copying.
Though they only post the files a week or so early, if
you request the files for the Triduum via e-mail, they
will be sent to you.
The Journey of Faith series (Liguori) has a
“Catechumenate Retreat Day” (Handout L8) based
on the readings from the Easter Vigil.
Foundations in Faith Purification and Enlightenment
Resource Book (RCL) has a Holy Saturday prayer
service based on the Preparation Rite.
4-17
Preparation Rites
on Holy Saturday
Liturgy
Preparation
RCIA, n. 185ff
Please note:
This Rite is celebrated by all of the elect and any candidates who participated in the Presentation of the Creed.
Questions to Prepare for the Rite
BEFORE THE RITE
1. When and where will the Preparation Rite be celebrated?
Be sure to communicate with others on the parish staff that this Rite will take place. Rehearsals with
acolytes and readers often take place on Holy Saturday. Another space might work well for this rite.
2. Who will be invited?
In addition to the elect, godparents, candidates and sponsors, you may wish to invite members of the
parish community.
GREETING
3. What greeting will be used?
The RCIA text suggests that a greeting from Mass or other suitable words be used. (n. 187)
RECITATION OF THE CREED AND EPHPHETHA RITE
4. Will the assembly be seated?
The celebrant could include an instruction to “Please be seated as we listen to the Word of God”
prior to the reading.
5. What reading will be used?
The RCIA text, n. 194, suggests several readings appropriate for the recitation.
6. Will the Ephphetha Rite be celebrated prior to the recitation of the Creed?
This rite may be celebrated with a brief Scripture reading and the signing of the ears and lips of the
elect and candidates. (Cf. RCIA Text, n. 198-199)
7. How will the Prayer before the Recitation be adapted to include candidates?
If candidates participate in this rite, insert the words “and candidates” after “these elect.”
8. Which Creed will the elect and candidates recite?
The Creed that was used at the Presentation of the Creed should be recited.
9. How will the elect and candidates recite the Creed?
The elect and candidates could recite the Creed from memory or they can recite it from cards that
you would provide for them.
CHOOSING A BAPTISMAL NAME - This rite is omitted in the dioceses of the United States
CONCLUDING RITES
10. How will the Prayer of Blessing be adapted to include candidates?
If candidates participate in this rite, insert the words “or for reception into the full communion of the
Catholic Church” after “as they earnestly prepare for baptism.”
Checklist
Script for Presider, Musicians, etc.
Lectionary prepared with correct readings
Copies of the Creed for recitation
Worship aid
4-18
Purification and Enlightenment
(23) Prepare for the Easter Vigil or Rite of Reception
a. Review the RCIA Text.
See the RCIA text for the guidelines and the rubrics for the Easter Vigil (For
Elect only: n. 206-243; For Elect and Candidates: n. 562-594) or for the
Rite of Reception (For Candidates only either at another time of the
year: n. 487-498, or n. 499-504, outside of Mass.) If there are only
Candidates to be received into full communion and this takes place at the
Easter Vigil, use the combined Rite (n. 562-594) omitting the elements
proper to baptism of the elect.
b. Prepare for the celebration of the Easter Vigil or Rite of Reception
Arrange a meeting with the pastor and/or other priest who will preside at
this liturgy as well as musicians and others (e.g. liturgy committee,
representatives of liturgical ministries) at least six weeks prior to the
celebration of the Easter Vigil in order to discuss how the rite will be
celebrated. Some questions for you to consider are listed on the following
pages.
c. Prepare the script for the Sacrament of Baptism, Rite of Reception and
Confirmation for the celebrant and other liturgical ministers.
In addition to the text of the rite, invitations, explanations, instructions, etc.
are often needed to provide direction to the participants and assembly. It
may be helpful to assemble a script for all involved in the liturgy to use.
d. Review the Easter Vigil ritual with Elect and Godparents, Candidates
and Sponsors.
While it may not be necessary or advisable to “run through” the entire Vigil,
it is important to walk through the rite of baptism and/or confirmation with
elect, godparents, candidates, and sponsors. Elect and candidates should be
told the responses that they will need to make during the various parts of the
rite. They will also need to be reminded about how to receive communion.
e. Plan a reception following the Easter Vigil
A reception following the Vigil provides an opportunity for the parish
community to welcome and rejoice with its newest members. Ask parish
organizations to host the reception. Invite others who have been baptized or
received into full communion from previous years.
RESOURCES
Certificates for the reception of the sacraments are
available from Liturgical Commission Publishings,
LTP and St. Anthony Messenger Press.
4-19
Liturgy
Preparation
Celebration at the Easter Vigil of
the Sacraments of Initiation and
the Rite of Reception
RCIA, n. 562ff
Please note:
The following questions are based on the combined celebration of the Sacraments of Initiation and Rite of
Reception at the Easter Vigil. For the celebration of the Sacraments of Initiation for Elect ONLY see RCIA,
n. 206 ff and applicable questions below; for the Rite of Reception for Candidates ONLY, see RCIA, n. 487
ff. and applicable questions below.
Questions to Prepare for the Liturgy
BEFORE THE LITURGY
1. Will the candidates be received into full communion at the Easter Vigil?
The RCIA text suggests that this reception take place at another time, if possible, so that the Vigil is
reserved for those being baptized. (National Statutes, n. 33-34)
2. Where will the elect and candidates be before the Vigil begins?
Will they be gathered where the fire will be lit? In pews at the front of church? In a separate space
awaiting the beginning of the Vigil?
3. Who will have candles?
Technically, since the elect have not yet been baptized, they would not hold candles, while the
candidates, who have been baptized, would hold candles.
4. Will the elect, their godparents, candidates and their sponsors be in the procession from
where the fire is lit into the church?
5. Where will the elect, godparents, candidates, sponsors and families of the initiates be seated?
CELEBRATION OF BAPTISM
6. Where will the baptisms take place? In the sanctuary or at a separate baptistery/font?
7. How will the elect be presented?
The presentation of the candidates is dictated by the way in which they will be baptized. See RCIA,
n. 568 for options.
8. Will the elect and candidates’ patron saints be included in the Litany of the Saints?
Compile a list and inform the musicians several weeks prior to the Vigil.
9. Which option will be used for the Renunciation of Sin? A, B or C (n. 573)
10. How will the Renunciation of Sin and Profession of Faith be made?
Individually by each of the elect or by all of the elect together (See n. 573-574.) If each of the elect is
questioned individually, does the celebrant know each of their names? It may be a good idea for
them to wear nametags, or to have the sponsor present them.
11. What form will be used for the baptisms?
Immersion or pouring may be used. Cf. RCIA, n. 575. In the case of immersion or if a large amount
of water is poured, provision will need to be made for a space for the newly baptized to change into
dry clothes.
12. Will an acclamation be sung after each baptism?
The musicians can lead a short alleluia or other acclamation after each baptism (see n. 575)
4-20
13. Which explanatory rites will be celebrated?
The Anointing after Baptism (n. 577) is only celebrated if Confirmation does not take place. The
Clothing with a Baptismal Garment (n. 578) is optional. The Presentation of a Lighted Candle (n.
579) is always to be celebrated.
14. Will the Clothing with a Baptismal Garment be celebrated? If so, how?
What sort of garment will be used? How will the godparent give the garment to the newly baptized?
15. How will the godparent light the candle from the Easter candle?
Is the candle near the font? Will the godparents go to the candle or will the candle be brought to the
font? If it is in its stand, the height of the Easter candle may make lighting candles from it difficult.
It may be helpful to remove the candle from its stand so that this may be done.
16. How will the godparents present the candle to the newly baptized?
The godparents could say a simple phrase such as, “Receive the light of Christ” as they hand the
candle to the newly baptized.
17. Where will the newly baptized and their godparents go at the conclusion of this rite?
Following the renewal of baptismal promises, the newly baptized will be called for the sacrament of
Confirmation, so they could stay in the sanctuary or be seated in their pews. They might depart at
this time to change into dry clothes if they are wet from their baptism.
RENEWAL OF BAPTISMAL PROMISES
18. Will the newly baptized assist in lighting the assembly’s candles?
The newly baptized could pass through the Church lighting the assembly’s candles from their own in
preparation for the renewal of baptismal promises. (See RCIA, n. 580) Since the candidates are
already baptized, they would hold lighted candles and join the rest of the community in renewing
their own baptismal promises.
19. Which option for the Renunciation of Sin will be used? A or B
CELEBRATION OF RECEPTION
20. How will the candidates for reception into full communion be called forward? (RCIA, n. 584)
Will they be called as a group or individually?
21. How will the Profession by the Candidates (RCIA, n. 585) take place?
Will they recite the text from cards, repeat the Profession after the celebrant or answer “I do” to a
question form of the profession?
22. How will the Act of Reception (RCIA, n. 586) take place?
Where will the celebrant be located? How will the candidates come to him? Does he know their
names? It may be a good idea for them to wear nametags, or to have the sponsor present them.
23. Where will the newly received and their sponsors go at the conclusion of this rite?
They will be confirmed with the newly baptized and those Catholics preparing for Confirmation and
Eucharist. Do the newly received need to move to make room for these others to join them?
CELEBRATION OF CONFIRMATION
24. How will the newly baptized and baptized but uncatechized Catholics be called forward to
join the newly received?
Will they be called as a group or individually?
25. How will the candidates for confirmation and their sponsors be arranged?
Will they face the congregation?
26. How will the laying on of hands take place? (RCIA, n. 590)
The rubrics suggest that the celebrant and any concelebrants simply extend their hands over the
4-21
entire group. If the size of the group permits it, he might lay hands on each of the confirmandi
individually. (Cf. Rite of Confirmation, n. 25)
27. How will the Anointing with Chrism take place? (RCIA, n. 591)
The confirmandi can come to the celebrant or the celebrant can go to each of the confirmandi.
28. How will the celebrant know the name/patron saint name of the confirmand?
Will the confirmand wear a nametag with the name printed on it? Will the sponsor tell the celebrant
the confirmand’s name/patron saint name?
LITURGY OF THE EUCHARIST
29. How will the neophytes be included in the presentation of the gifts? (RCIA, n. 592)
All the neophytes can participate in the procession, even if there are more neophytes than there are
gifts to be brought forward.
30. There are special interpolations (texts) that can be included in Eucharistic Prayer I. Will the
celebrant use them? (RCIA, n. 593)
These interpolations are marked “From the Easter Vigil to the Second Sunday of Easter Inclusive” in
the Sacramentary.
31. Will the celebrant make a brief comment about the reception of the Eucharist prior to the
Lamb of God? (RCIA, n. 594)
The celebrant could say the following or similar words:
“Before celebrating Communion, I wish to address the neophytes and those who have been received
into full communion with the Church tonight. You have traveled a long road in preparation to
receive this sacrament which signifies your union with Christ and with His Church, a sacrament in
which Jesus feeds His Church with his Body and Blood. May the Eucharist always be the center of
your life as a Christian.”
32. How will the newly baptized, newly received, and all those involved in their formation,
receive Communion?
The rite suggests that they receive under both forms. (RCIA, n. 594)
Checklist
Reserved seats for elect, godparents, candidates,
sponsors and families
Candles for the Service of Light
Worship aids (with texts, for example the
Exsuletet and responses that may not be familiar
for elect and candidates and some explanations
for guests who are not Catholic.)
List of the names of patron saints the elect and
candidates are choosing for Musicians
Towels (for after the baptism)
White Baptismal Garments
Baptismal Candles
Text for “Profession by the Candidates” (See
Question 21, above and RCIA, n. 585)
Chrism Oil, Soap and Water for the celebrant to
wash his hands after the confirmation.
Special text for Eucharistic Prayer I (see
Question 30, above and RCIA, n. 593)
Nametags for elect and confirmandi (see
Question 10 and 28, above.)
4-22
MYSTAGOGY PERIOD
You are "a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people of his
own, so that you may announce the praises" of him who called you out of
darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were "no people" but now you
are God's people; you "had not received mercy" but now you have received
mercy.
1 Peter 2:9-10
(24) Prepare the Elements of the Mystagogy Period
The guidelines for the period of mystagogy explain that the neophytes and the
community are aided in “deepening their grasp of the paschal mystery and in
making it a part of their lives” through…
I. “meditation on the Gospel”
II. “sharing in the Eucharist”
III. and “doing works of charity” (RCIA, n. 244)
Ideas for meditating on the Gospel are suggested below. Ideas for sharing in the
Eucharist and doing works of charity are in section (25) Focus on the
Celebration of the Sunday Masses during the Easter Season, page 5-5 and
(26) Encourage Neophytes to Participate in Parish Life and/or
Community Service, page 5-7.
In addition to these three elements of the mystagogy period, postbaptismal
catechesis might also include ongoing formation in the faith, offering neophytes
specific ideas for applying the Christian faith to daily life. Ideas for resources to
use are found in Section b. Postbaptismal Catechesis, page 5-2
a. Meditation on the Gospel
In this period, the readings given in the Lectionary are rich with images that
reveal the relationship between the Christian and the Lord (e.g. the Good
Shepherd; the Vine and the branches.) Other Scripture passages show the
responsibility that the Christian has to witness to the Good News, that
“Christ is Risen! Truly He is risen!”
Encourage neophytes to reflect on the Scripture readings using the resources
suggested below or in (12) Hold Breaking Open the Word Sessions, page
3-9. Since they will not be dismissed from Mass to break open the Word,
here are some ways that they might continue to do this:
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•
Meet as a group after Mass or at another time during the week.
•
Break open the Word with their family or reflect on the Scriptures
privately.
•
Meet with their sponsor/godparent some time during the week.
b. Postbaptismal Catechesis
Just as the formational focus shifted from catechesis in the catechumenate to
spiritual preparation in the period of purification and enlightenment, the
focus shifts again, now to the neophytes’ new experience of the sacraments.
The neophytes’ formation prior to receiving the sacraments will greatly affect
how they reflect on the Easter Vigil liturgy and their reception of the
sacraments in the weeks and months ahead.
Mystagogical, or post-baptismal, catechesis is a mode of catechesis in which a
liturgical rite is recalled and then “unpacked” in the way an onion is peeled,
revealing more layers underneath. Like the onion, the liturgical acts in which
we participate have numerous “layers.” One layer is the present experience
of the liturgy in this time and place, with this group of people—the sights,
sounds, smells and touch of the liturgy right here and now.
Another layer is the historical celebration of this liturgy—the memory of last
year’s Easter Vigil or the vigil that was celebrated on the other side of the
world or by Saint Ambrose 1500 years ago. Still another layer is the way that
the liturgy calls to mind and literally “re-presents” or “makes present” God’s
saving power in history—for example, baptism recalls the flood, the crossing
of the Red Sea, Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan, the blood and water that flowed
from Jesus’ side as he hung on the cross.
The job of the “mystagogue” or the one who “guides into mystery” is to
reveal or peel back some of the layers of the liturgy and to aid the neophytes
and the entire community in discovering additional layers. The primary place
that this mystagogical catechesis takes place is at the Sunday liturgy, with the
homilist as the mystagogue. It is also helpful to provide opportunities for the
neophytes to gather and reflect on their experience of the sacraments and the
initiation process, in general, as a group. Some resources to aid in preparing
for sessions during the mystagogy period are found below.
RESOURCES
A. Foundations in Faith: Mystagogia Resource Book
Resources for Christian Living (RCL)
This resource provides a number of materials that will aid all involved in
initiation (mystagogue, community, clergy, neophytes, etc.) to “go deeper” as
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they reflect on the meaning of the sacraments and the Word of God in their
lives.
PART ONE—MYSTAGOGIA provides information on the origins, history and
present ideas regarding mystagogy. It describes the role of the homilist, the
community, the catechist and the bishop as mystagogues.
PART TWO—RESOURCES TO PREPARE FOR THE PERIOD OF MYSTAGOGY
offers suggestions for preparing the team, sponsors/godparents and the
community for this period with exercise and handouts.
PART THREE—RESOURCES FOR THE PERIOD OF MYSTAGOGY includes
reflections and questions for the Lectionary readings for the Sundays of Easter,
Years A, B, and C; outlines for mystagogical reflection with the neophytes on
the Easter Vigil and the Liturgy of the Eucharist; and sessions to reflect on
social justice action.
PART FOUR—RESOURCES FOR ONGOING MYSTAGOGY contains strategies
for keeping neophytes connected; models for gathering with them during the
year; an outline for mystagogical reflection on the Rite of Reception of
Baptized Christians; and ideas for celebrating the anniversary of initiation.
B.
Foundations in Faith: Handbook for Neophytes
Resources for Christian Living (RCL)
This handbook is an excellent resource to provide to neophytes as they embark
upon their first year as Catholic Christians. Each of the chapters listed below
begins with a brief testimony by a neophyte, ideas for reflection and practical
suggestions for putting the particular idea into practice.
Introduction
Celebrate Eucharist
Savor the Mystery
Do the Works of Love
Be Realistic
Stay Connected
Offer Witness
Act Like a Neophyte
Advice to Neophytes
C.
Life After Sunday:
Catholic Culture for Families, Schools, and Parishes
Lumen Catechetical Consultants, Inc.
The issues of this resource choose a theme (for example, “Mystery,”
“Destiny,” “Body,” “Mission,” “Beauty”) and show how this theme applies to
various areas of our lives. For example, the “Mystery” issue contains the
following articles: “A Great Mystery Has Been Revealed” (Life with Jesus);
“An Encounter with the Mystery” (Life on Sunday); “Making Time for
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Mystery” (Life At Home); “Living the Mystery” (Life in the Parish); “Be the
Mystery!” (Life in the World)
D.
Journey of Faith
Liguori Publications
As with the previous periods, this resource suggests 8 handouts for use in this
period that aid the neophyte in living the Christian life.
M1.
Conversion: A Lifelong Process
M2.
The Laity: Called to Build God’s Kingdom
M3.
Your Special Gifts
M4.
Family Life
M5.
Your Prayer Life
M6.
Discernment
M7.
Holiness
M8.
Evangelization
E. Living the Mysteries: A Guide for Unfinished Christians
Scott Hahn and Mike Aquilina, Our Sunday Visitor
After an excellent introduction explaining the meaning of the word
“mystagogy” and the origins of this period of postbaptismal catechesis, the
authors present 50 readings, one for each day of the Easter season, from the
writings of the Church Fathers: St. Basil, St. Gregory of Nyssa, St. Cyril of
Jerusalem, St. Clement of Alexandria, St. Ambrose, St. Augustine, St. John
Chrysostom and St. Leo the Great.. Each reading concludes with reflections
entitled “Take it to Prayer,” “Learn It By Heart,” and “Apply It to Your Life.”
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Mystagogy and the Neophyte Year
(25) Focus on the Celebration of the Sunday Masses during the Easter
Season
The Sunday Masses of the Easter Season are the “main setting” for the
period of mystagogy. Consider the following points when preparing for the
celebrations of these Masses:
a. Special Places in the Congregation for the Neophytes and their
Families.
If the neophytes sat together in one particular place during the
catechumenate, the practice of reserving pews for them and their families,
“places of honor” as it were, at one or several Masses, could continue during
the Easter season. (cf. RCIA, n. 248)
b. The Lectionary Readings
The readings from the Lectionary are particularly suited to the neophytes’
new experience of the Christian life. Consider providing the neophytes and
the entire parish with resources to aid in reflecting on these Scripture
readings and deepening their understanding of the paschal mystery.
c. The Homily
If the main setting for postbaptismal catechesis are the Sunday Masses in the
Easter season, then the homilies during this season are particularly significant
in aiding the neophytes and the entire parish community to connect the
Scriptures, their daily lives and their experience of the sacraments. The
following resources offer ideas for preaching or give an idea of what
mystagogical homilies were like in the early Church.
RESOURCES
Liturgy of the Hours
Catholic Book Publishing Company
The second reading from the Office of Readings for each day of the Octave
of Easter is the text of a homily given to the neophytes in the early Church.
The Awe-Inspiring Rites of Initiation
Edward Yarnold, S.J., Liturgical Press
This resource contains a number of the mystagogical homilies by saints and
theologians from the fourth and fifth centuries.
Living the Mysteries: A Guide for Unfinished Christians
Scott Hahn and Mike Aquilina, Our Sunday Visitor
See description, page 5-4.
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d. The General Intercessions
While it is important to pray for the elect and candidates during Lent as they
prepare to receive the sacraments, it just as is important to continue to pray
for the neophytes after their initiation. (Cf. RCIA, n. 248) Include an
intercession each week that focuses on the neophytes and the witness of their
new life in Christ.
e. The Music
Celebrate the Easter Season with songs that contain “alleluias” and reflect
images of baptism and life in Christ as suggested by the Scripture readings
each week. Use songs from the Easter Vigil or Easter Sunday to continue
the joyful character of the season.
f. Neophytes’ Testimonies
Invite the neophytes to share a testimony about their experience of Christian
initiation. Ask them to reflect on and write a testimony shortly after the
Easter Vigil so that they can recall the experience more vividly. Prior to
doing so, you will want to give the neophytes guidance in preparing their
testimony (e.g. how long should it be, when will it take place, how will they
be introduced.)
Offer them time to practice their testimony in the church. This will help
them to become comfortable with the sound system and will give you or
other team members the opportunity to hear their testimony and to offer any
suggestions.
Finally, explain that their testimony is primarily about how God has worked
in their lives. Whether they focus on one moment of the initiation process
or a longer period of their life, what is important is that they tell their story
so that those who listen will hear people like them sharing how God has
made a difference in their lives.
•
One person could share their testimony each week or several could share
on one weekend.
•
Have testimonies given at all of the Masses so that the entire community
hears how God has worked in the initiates’ lives.
•
Testimonies could also be given throughout the year to keep the
initiation process in the minds of the parishioners.
•
Print the testimonies in the bulletin or on the Internet.
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Mystagogy and the Neophyte Year
(26) Encourage Neophytes to Participate in Parish Life and/or
Community Service
The sacraments of initiation are not the end of the Christian life, but only the
beginning. If we stress the importance of living the Christian life throughout
the initiation process, then becoming involved in parish life will be second
nature to the initiates and remaining involved will happen naturally.
It may be helpful (at this point or even earlier in the initiation process) to
provide occasions for the neophytes to find out about the many
opportunities for Christian service that are available, both in the parish and in
the community at large. Helping them to become active in a parish group,
ministry, etc. will aid in incorporating them into the community and
continuing their ongoing apprenticeship in Christian living.
IDEAS
Invite those involved in the various parish ministries and outreach to
make brief presentations at initiation events throughout the year and
help the initiates to participate when they are interested and able to
do so.
Inform initiates about a parish Ministry Fair or plan one if one does
not currently take place.
Plan ways for the neophytes, the entire initiation group, and the
parish to participate in opportunities for service.
Prepare opportunities for prayer and reflection prior to or following
these events.
Create a list of volunteer/service opportunities in the parish and in
the community and encourage sponsors/godparents to help initiates
find one that suits their gifts.
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(27) Help the Parish Welcome the Neophytes
"To strengthen the neophytes as they begin to walk in newness of life, the
community of the faithful, their godparents, and their parish priests (pastors)
should give them thoughtful and friendly help." (RCIA, n. 244)
While the parish community has been a part of the entire initiation process, in
this period the community should be sure to show its joy by welcoming those
who have been reborn in Christ. Here are some areas on which to focus in order
to help the parish welcome the neophytes.
a. Provide Information for the Parish, Sponsors/Godparents, Liturgical
Ministers about Mystagogy
Catholics who were baptized as infants do not have the experience of adults
who are baptized or received into full communion after participating in the
Christian initiation process. Therefore, it may be necessary to help
parishioners enter into the period of mystagogy by reflecting on how they are
living their baptismal promises. It is also important to explain to them the
responsibility that all in the parish have of welcoming our newest members.
RESOURCES
Foundations in Faith, Resource Book for Mystagogia
Handout 5: Mystagogy for the Assembly (p. 35)
b. Aid the Sponsors and Godparents in Supporting the Neophytes
The fact that initiation is a beginning, not “The End” is particularly true in
the case of sponsors and godparents. While the sponsor or godparent has
journeyed with the neophyte up to this point, experiencing the joys and
sorrows that the neophyte has experienced, the time after initiation is
arguably the most critical. The importance of supporting the neophyte as he
or she puts the Christian life into practice cannot be understated.
Coordinators should keep in touch with sponsors and godparents during the
neophyte year, reminding them that their responsibility continues after
initiation and assisting them to do so, if necessary. Some ways in which the
sponsor or godparent can aid the neophyte during this year are:
•
Discussing the Scriptures for Sundays and other feasts.
•
Helping the neophyte to discern how to use his or her gifts in the
community.
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Mystagogy and the Neophyte Year
•
Answering questions or concerns about living the Catholic life that
the neophyte raises.
•
Talk about “current topics” in the media, etc. from a Catholic
perspective.
•
Finding out if the neophyte has needs that arise with which the parish
community can provide assistance.
•
Praying together.
•
Participating in service opportunities.
•
Sharing ideas about how to celebrate the feasts and seasons of the
liturgical year.
•
Reflecting on the experience of the sacraments of initiation and the
Christian initiation process (e.g. Celebrating anniversaries of the
various rites, etc.)
RESOURCES
Foundations in Faith, Resource Book for Mystagogia
Handout 4: Tips for Godparents and Sponsors (p. 33)
c. Register Neophytes in the Parish
Now that the neophytes and the newly received have become one with us
through the sacraments of initiation, be sure to register them in the parish, if
they have not already done so. This simple practice helps them to feel
connected to the parish and to the Church.
Depending on how your parish database is set up, you might enter a special
code indicating that the person was baptized or received into full
communion so that you can contact them over the years.
d. Introduce the Initiates
If you have not had a chance to display photos of the initiates up to this
point in the initiation process, the period of mystagogy is another time to do
so. You could also write a brief article for the bulletin introducing the
neophytes to the parish.
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(28) Prepare for the Sacrament of Reconciliation for the Newly
Baptized
For the elect, the sacrament of Baptism will be, among other things, an experience of
the forgiveness of all previous sin. After Easter, however, neophytes are sometimes
apprehensive about celebrating the sacrament of Penance.
You can help the neophytes by arranging a special time for them to celebrate this
sacrament, suggesting other times that the sacrament is available, encouraging
sponsors/godparents to assist with their preparation (by picking them up to go to
confession, discussing the sacrament with them, etc.) and providing materials
(examination of conscience, etc.) that will help them to prepare for the sacrament.
IDEAS
You might arrange for the celebration of this sacrament in one of the
following ways:
A communal celebration of the Sacrament of Penance for the initiation team
and the initiates during the Easter Season and/or at another time during the
neophyte year.
The newly baptized can be guided to avail themselves of the Sacrament of
Penance at the regularly scheduled times in the parish, perhaps meeting with
their godparent and/or a team member beforehand for last minute questions
and support.
Appointments can be scheduled with a priest for individual confessions, thus
allowing for time for spiritual direction.
The Sacrament of Penance can be celebrated at a place of pilgrimage such as
the Basilica or Franciscan Monastery. Remind the neophytes that it might be
helpful to advise the confessor that this is a first confession.
See the liturgy outline for the candidates’ celebration of the Sacrament of
Reconciliation, page 4-16, for more ideas.
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Mystagogy and the Neophyte Year
(29) Celebrate and Evaluate
a. Celebrate the End of the Period of Mystagogy and the Past Year
"To close the period of postbaptismal catechesis [mystagogy], some sort of
celebration should be held at the end of the Easter Season near Pentecost
Sunday" (RCIA, n. 249).
A special gathering can be celebrated in conjunction with a Sunday Mass,
Sunday Vespers or at another time. A shared meal allows the parish
community to gather with the neophytes.
IDEAS
Hold a Dinner/Social/Picnic/Mass/Prayer Time for all involved in
initiation ministry, their spouses and families.
If a Mass is celebrated, the newly baptized and newly received can take
on roles in the liturgy as appropriate: greeters, musicians, ushers, lectors,
or presenters of gifts. Choose music that was used during the initiation
process.
Invite neophytes, team members, sponsors, godparents from previous
years to attend.
Recall highlights from the past year, thank those who have served in
initiation ministry, and celebrate God’s work through all who have been
involved in the initiation process.
Give catechists and team members small gifts or certificates of
appreciation. Recognize anyone who is leaving the team. Thank spouses
for their support as well.
b. Participate in the Archdiocesan Mass for New Catholics
The RCIA text suggests that the bishop meet with the neophytes and
celebrate Mass, if possible. Contact the Office of Christian Initiation to see
if a Mass for New Catholics is planned during the Easter season or at
another time of the year. Communicate the information to neophytes as well
as sponsors and godparents and encourage them to attend.
Alternatively, you could speak with your pastor to extend an invitation for
the archbishop or one of the auxiliary bishops to visit your parish to
celebrate a Mass with the neophytes. Several parishes (for example, a
deanery) could also extend such an invitation.
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c. Evaluate
In order to appreciate the work of the Lord in the Christian initiation process
and better cooperate with that work, opportunities to discuss and evaluate
are essential.
Plan a way for the various groups (clergy, team, catechists,
sponsors/godparents, initiates, etc.) to discuss candidly their experience of
the initiation process (e.g. small or large group discussions, one-on-one
meetings, written evaluations.) Identify things to “Keep”, “Change” and
“Add” for the future.
RESOURCES
See Appendix 8, page A-27, How Are We Doing and How Can We Do
It Better?
This instrument can aid the coordinator, team members and clergy in
reflecting on the parish’s current initiation practice and suggesting new areas
for growth.
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Mystagogy and the Neophyte Year
(30) Stay Connected During the Neophyte Year and Beyond
"After the immediate mystagogy or postbaptismal catechesis during the Easter
Season, the program for the neophytes should extend until the anniversary of
Christian initiation, with at least monthly assemblies of the neophytes for their
deeper Christian formation and incorporation into the full life of the Christian
community." (NS, n. 24)
a. Ongoing Formation—While the greatest strength many participants feel
about the initiation process was “being connected to a community,” they
often feel “that there are few or no ongoing formation opportunities after
their reception into the Church.” (JTLF, p. 57) They desire “more
opportunities to further their own faith formation” (JTFL, p. 39)
It is essential to help the newly baptized and newly received find
opportunities to share the experiences of their new life as Catholics, to have
questions about living the Christian life answered, and to continue to grow in
their faith. The role of sponsors and/or godparents are essential here. See
(27) b., page 5-8 for ways to aid the sponsors and godparents in supporting
them.
While your parish/the initiation team/sponsors and godparents may be able
to offer some opportunities for ongoing formation and growth in the
Christian life, but you also need to help new initiates to avail themselves of
events (retreats, conferences, etc.) and services in other parishes, on the
Archdiocesan level and outside the Archdiocese.
IDEAS
PRAYER
Devotions such as Eucharistic Adoration, Benediction, the
Rosary at the parish or elsewhere.
Prayer experiences such as a Charismatic Prayer Group.
Liturgical Season celebrations during Advent and Lent include prayer and an experience like making an Advent
wreath or a Lenten family cross.
Celebrate life events with blessings - expectant child, a new
home, etc.
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COMMUNITY
Plan a meal with time for prayer and faith sharing.
Participate in parish events (e.g. parish picnic, dance, concert,
fundraisers, etc.) archdiocesan events (e.g. the annual
Pilgrimage to the Shrine, Theology on Tap, etc.) or
community events (e.g. concerts, theater, art festivals, athletic
events, etc.)
Visit the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, the
Franciscan Monastery, John Paul II Cultural Center, other
Catholic parishes or parishes of other Rites such as the
Byzantine Catholic and Ukrainian Catholic Churches.
Suggest that the initiates form a Bible study group.
JUSTICE/SERVICE
Engage in outreach at a soup kitchen or a nursing home with
an opportunity for reflection afterward.
Pray in front of an abortion clinic or find ways to support
women who choose not to have an abortion.
Participate in the Archdiocese’s Lobby Night in Annapolis,
the March for Life or other events.
SPIRITUAL GROWTH
Form a small faith community (men’s, women’s or mixed) to
maintain the fellowship that formed during the initiation process
Attend a retreat or conference locally or around the country.
ONGOING EDUCATION
Inform new initiates about adult faith formation
opportunities in your parish or other local parishes.
Hold meetings for catechesis about current events, upcoming
liturgical feasts and seasons, etc.
Attend archdiocesan events: Theology on Tap, Hearts Aflame
Courses, Catechetical Day, etc.
Take advantage of online education opportunities.
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Mystagogy and the Neophyte Year
b. Anniversary of Baptism
"On the anniversary of their baptism, the neophytes should be brought together in order to
give thanks to God, to share with one another their spiritual experiences, and to renew their
commitment" (RCIA, n. 250).
Invite the neophytes who were baptized in previous years to the Easter Vigil,
to the celebration at the end of the period of mystagogy or to a celebration at
another time. Their presence and witness can be a source of encouragement
to the newly baptized and newly received.
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APPENDICES
Appendix 1 Christian Initiation Forms
RCIA-E
Instructions for Christian Initiation Information Forms..................A-2
RCIA-A
Inquirer Information ..............................................................................A-3
RCIA-B
Current Marital Status Follow-Up ........................................................A-5
RCIA-C
Previous Marriage Information.............................................................A-7
RCIA-D
Christian Initiation Information ...........................................................A-9
RCIA-F
Request for Faculties to Confirm Baptized Catholics
(Instructions) .........................................................................................A-11
RCIA-G
Request for Faculties to Confirm Baptized Catholics (Form)........A-12
RCIA-H
Sponsor Information ............................................................................A-13
RCIA-I
Child/Teen Inquirer Information ......................................................A-15
RCIA-J
Child/Teen Christian Initiation Information ...................................A-17
Appendix 2 Initiation Liturgy Dates: 2005 through 2008...............................................A-19
Appendix 3 Valid and Invalid Baptisms ............................................................................A-20
Appendix 4 Creating a Baptismal Record .........................................................................A-21
Appendix 5 Prayers of the Faithful for Christian Initiation ...........................................A-22
Appendix 6 Sample Bulletin Announcements for Christian Initiation
Inquiry Sessions...............................................................................................A-23
Appendix 7 Determining an Initiate’s Status ....................................................................A-25
Appendix 8 How Are We Doing and How Can We Do It Better? ..............................A-27
Appendix 9 Guideline for Celebrating the Sacraments with Persons
with Disabilities (Excerpts)............................................................................A-31
Appendix 10 The Sign of the Cross: A Prayer Service in Preparation for the Rite of
Acceptance and Rite of Welcoming .............................................................A-36
Appendix 11 Sample Catechumenate Session Outline......................................................A-45
Appendix 12 Celebration of a Liturgy of the Word...........................................................A-47
A-1
Instructions for Christian
Initiation Information Forms
T
Archdiocese of
Washington
he enclosed forms have been developed to help you obtain important information about those
who inquire about Christian Initiation in your parish. A description of each form follows:
Inquirer Information Form (Form RCIA-A)
This form requests basic contact information, religious history, marital status and family
information. N.B. This is the only form that inquirers should complete by themselves. The
coordinator, a member of the clergy or another initiation minister should complete any other
applicable form(s) in an interview format with the inquirer once he or she has completed this form.
Current Marital Status Follow-Up (Form RCIA-B)
If an inquirer is engaged, married or divorced and not re-married, there are specific questions that
he or she should be asked to determine if there are marriage-related issues that will need to be
addressed. Complete the appropriate section of this form with the inquirer in an interview format.
Previous Marriage Information (Form RCIA-C)
If an inquirer and/or an inquirer’s fiancée(e) or spouse has been previously married, use this form
to gather some basic information to determine the status of the previous marriage(s). Question (c)
asks specific questions to verify if a Declaration of Nullity has been granted.
It will be best to complete the appropriate section(s) of this form with the inquirer and/or the
inquirer’s fiancée(e) or spouse in an interview format, so that you can explain why you are asking
certain questions. Keep in mind that previous marriage situations, no matter what the current
status, must be treated with pastoral sensitivity.
Christian Initiation Information (Form RCIA-D)
The first two sections of this form provide a place to record the dates and other significant
information regarding an inquirer’s participation in the Christian initiation process for sacramental
record keeping purposes. Use the reverse side of this form to record the dates on which the steps
of the annulment process have been completed, if applicable.
Tips for Using the Forms: It may be helpful to photocopy each form on a different color of paper
in order to easily distinguish between forms. x Keep the forms for those who are currently
participating in the Christian initiation process in a three-ring binder so that you can insert
additional forms as needed. x When someone receives the sacraments of initiation, these forms
contain all of the information that is needed for completing the parish sacramental records.
Permission is granted to copy these forms for use in any parish in the Archdiocese of Washington.
If you have suggestions for improvements to these forms, please contact the Office of Worship (301) 853-5335.
Form RCIA—E
A-2
Rev. 06/03
Inquirer Information Form
Information is held in confidence and is not shared without your permission.
Today’s Date: ________________________________________________________________________
Name: First: ___________________Middle: ____________________Last:_______________________
Maiden Name (if applicable): ______________________________________________________________
Date of Birth:
Place of Birth (City, State, Country, if not USA): ____________________
I. Contact Information
Mailing Address:______________________________________________Apt: ____________________
City:__________________________State: _________________________Zip: ____________________
Phone: (Daytime)
(Evening/Weekend) _____________________________
Cell Phone:
Occupation: ________________________________
E-mail: (Home)
(Other) _____________________________________
II. Religious History
1. What, if any, is your present religious affiliation?________________________________________
2. Have you ever been baptized?
U Yes
U No
U I am not sure.
If you answered "Yes" to Question 2., please provide the following information:
(a) In what denomination were you baptized?___________________________________________
(b) Date or your approximate age when you were baptized:________________________________
(c) Place of Baptism (Name of church/denomination): ________________________________________
(d) Address, if known: _______________________________________________________________
(e) City and State, if known; Country, if not USA: _____________________________________________
3. If you were baptized as a Catholic, check those sacraments you have already received:
U Penance (Confession)
U Eucharist (First Communion)
U Confirmation
Continued on reverse side.
Form RCIA—A
A-3
Rev. 06/03
III. Current Marital Status
Check the appropriate statement below and provide any information requested beneath the statement.
U 1. I am single and I have never been married.
U 2. I am engaged to be married.
(a) Your Fiancé(e)’s Name: _________________________________________________________
(b) Your Fiancé(e)’s Current Religious Affiliation (if any): _________________________________
(c) For you:
U This is my first marriage.
(d) For your fiancé(e):
U I have been married before.
U This is his/her first marriage. U My fiancé(e) has been married before.
U 3. I am married.
(a) Your Spouse’s Name:___________________________________________________________
(b) Your Spouse’s Current Religious Affiliation (if any):___________________________________
(c) For you:
U This is my first marriage.
U I have been married before.
(d) For your spouse: U This is my spouse’s first marriage. U My spouse has been married before.
(e) Date of Marriage
(f) Place of Marriage:
U 4. I am married, but separated from my spouse.
U 5. I am divorced and I have not remarried.
U 6. I am a widow/widower.
IV. Family Information
List the name(s) of any children or other dependents. (e.g. Daughter—Jane; Stepson—John.)
Relationship:
Name:
Age: _____
Relationship:
Name:
Age: _____
Relationship:
Name:
Age: _____
Relationship:
Name:
Age: _____
A-4
Current Marital Status Follow-Up
Inquirer’s Name: ____________________________________________________________________
Depending on the responses given in Section III. Current Marital Status, you may need
to complete additional information or ask follow-up questions as indicated below.
If the Inquirer responds…“2. I am engaged to be married.”
1. Look at Questions (c) and (d)
If either the inquirer and/or the inquirer’s fiancé(e) has been previously married, complete Section
V and/or VI on the Previous Marriage Information form with the inquirer/inquirer’s fiancé(e).
If either party has a previous marriage that has not been adjudicated, the inquirer should be
informed of the need to contact the Marriage Tribunal (301) 853-4543 as soon as possible and, if
necessary, start a case. The local pastor should be informed of the same.
You will also need to inform the inquirer immediately that no guarantee can be given that any case
submitted to the Tribunal might be adjudicated in time for reception into the Church on Holy
Saturday of the coming year.1
2. Ask this Follow-Up Question
(e) When are you hoping to be married?
You may need to explain the process of marriage preparation in the Catholic Church and any
applicable Archdiocesan marriage policies that may affect a wedding date. (See Archdiocese of
Washington Sacramental Norms and Policies, pp. 57-74, for more information.)
If the Inquirer responds…“3. I am married.”
1. Look at Questions (c) and (d)
If either the inquirer and/or the inquirer’s spouse has been previously married, complete Section V
and/or VI on the Previous Marriage Information form with the inquirer/the inquirer’s spouse. If
either party has a previous marriage that has not been adjudicated, the inquirer should be informed
of the need to contact the Marriage Tribunal (301) 853-4543 as soon as possible and, if necessary,
start a case. The local pastor should be informed of the same.
You will also need to inform the inquirer immediately that no guarantee can be given that any case
submitted to the Tribunal might be adjudicated in time for reception into the Church on Holy
Saturday of the coming year.2
Continued on reverse side.
1
2
Cf. Policy Regarding Reception into the Church and Scheduling of Weddings in the Case of Pending Marriage Cases.
(Archdiocese of Washington Clergy Newsletter, August, 1999.)
Ibid.
Form RCIA—B
A-5
Rev. 06/03
If the Inquirer responds…“3. I am married.” (Continued)
2. Ask these Follow-Up Questions
(g) Was your spouse baptized as a Catholic?
U Yes
U No
If neither the inquirer nor the inquirer’s spouse was baptized as a Catholic, then no further
questions are needed.
If either the inquirer or his/her spouse was baptized as a Catholic, then you will need to ask:
(h) Was your marriage witnessed by a Catholic priest or deacon?
U Yes
U No
If “Yes,” then no further questions are needed.
If “No,” then you will need to ask:
(i) Did you receive a dispensation to have someone other than a Catholic priest or deacon witness
your marriage?
U Yes
U No
U I am not sure
If someone was baptized as a Catholic and did not either (1) have their marriage witnessed by a
Catholic priest or deacon or (2) receive a dispensation from this requirement, you will need to
inform the local pastor to determine if the marriage will need to be convalidated.
If the Inquirer responds…“5. I am divorced and I have not remarried.”
1. Ask this Follow-Up Question
(a) Is your previous spouse alive?
U Yes
U No
“Yes”—If the former spouse is alive, the inquirer may be received into the Church without having
their previous marriage adjudicated. However, the following points must be addressed before
taking this route.
While the adjudication of a previous marriage for someone who is divorced and not remarried is
not strictly required to be received into the Church, there is a certain advisability for someone in
this situation to contact the Marriage Tribunal and start a case, if necessary, if a future marriage is
a possibility. If an inquirer chooses not to have a previous marriage adjudicated, the inquirer will
need to understand that if he/she is received into the Church and then wants to marry again, he/she
will have to have the previous marriage adjudicated at that point and, if the previous marriage is
determined to be valid, he/she will not be able to marry in the Church until that marital bond is
dissolved upon the death of the former spouse. If the inquirer clearly understands this, then they
may be received into the Church.
“No”—If the former spouse has died, there is no impediment to the person being received into the
Church because there is no existing marital bond. People sometimes think that even if they are
divorced and their former spouse has died, they still cannot become Catholic. This is not true.
A-6
Previous Marriage Information
Complete this form if an inquirer has been previously married (Section V) or
if an inquirer’s spouse or fiancé(e) has been previously married (Section VI, on reverse.)
Inquirer’s Name: ____________________________________________________________________
V. Inquirer’s Previous Marriage(s)
x Complete questions (a) to (c) for each previous marriage. Copy form for additional marriages.
First Previous Marriage
(a) Former Spouse’s Current Name:
First: ____________________ Middle/Maiden: __________________Last:____________________
(b) Date of Marriage __________________________________________________________________
(c) Have you or your former spouse ever petitioned for an annulment from a Church Tribunal?
U Yes
U No, to my knowledge
If "Yes,” was the annulment granted?
U An annulment is currently in process
U Yes
U No
U I do not know.
Date: _______________________________
Case No.
(Arch)Diocese: City, State (Country, if not USA.): ________________________________________
U Declaration of Nullity verified by
Date ______________
Second Previous Marriage
(a) Former Spouse’s Current Name:
First: ____________________ Middle/Maiden: __________________Last:____________________
(b) Date of Marriage __________________________________________________________________
(c) Have you or your former spouse ever petitioned for an annulment from a Church Tribunal?
U Yes
U No, to my knowledge
If "Yes,” was the annulment granted?
U An annulment is currently in process
U Yes
Case No.
U No
U I do not know.
Date: _______________________________
(Arch)Diocese: City, State (Country, if not USA.): ________________________________________
U Declaration of Nullity verified by
Form RCIA—C
Date ______________
A-7
Rev. 06/03
VI. Previous Marriage(s) of an Inquirer’s Fiancé(e)/Spouse
x Complete for an inquirer’s fiancé(e)/spouse who has been previously married.
x Complete questions (a) to (c) for each previous marriage. Copy form for additional marriages.
Name of Inquirer’s Fiancé(e)/Spouse: ___________________________________________________
First Previous Marriage
(a) Former Spouse’s Current Name:
First: ____________________ Middle/Maiden: __________________Last:____________________
(b) Date of Marriage __________________________________________________________________
(c) Has the inquirer’s fiancé(e)/spouse or his or her former spouse ever petitioned for an
annulment from a Church Tribunal?
U Yes
U No, to my knowledge
If "Yes,” was the annulment granted?
U An annulment is currently in process
U Yes
Case No.
U No
U I do not know.
Date: _______________________________
(Arch)Diocese: City, State (Country, if not USA.): ________________________________________
Date ______________
U Declaration of Nullity verified by
Second Previous Marriage
(a) Former Spouse’s Current Name:
First: ____________________ Middle/Maiden: __________________Last:____________________
(b) Date of Marriage __________________________________________________________________
(c) Has the inquirer’s fiancé(e)/spouse or his or her former spouse ever petitioned for an
annulment from a Church Tribunal?
U Yes
U No, to my knowledge
If "Yes,” was the annulment granted?
U An annulment is currently in process
U Yes
U No
U I do not know.
Date: _______________________________
Case No.
(Arch)Diocese: City, State (Country, if not USA.): ________________________________________
U Declaration of Nullity verified by
Date ______________
A-8
Christian Initiation Information
Use this form to record important dates related to the Christian Initiation process
and other information for sacramental record keeping.
Name: ______________________________________________________________________________
ˆ Has not been baptized
ˆ Has been baptized
ˆ Is not sure if he/she has been baptized
Father's First and Last Names: ___________________________________________________________
Mother's First and Maiden Names: ________________________________________________________
I. For an Unbaptized Person
1. Date of Participation in the Rite of Acceptance: ___________________________________________
2. Date of Participation in the Rite of Election: ______________________________________________
3. Date of Reception of Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist: ______________________
4. Sponsor(s)/Godparent(s): _____________________________________________________________
5. Priest Conferring Baptism: ____________________________________________________________
6. Confirmation Name: _________________________________________________________________
II. For a Baptized Person
1. Baptismal Certificate received by
Date: ____________
2. Date of Participation in the Rite of Welcoming: ___________________________________________
3. Date of Participation in the Call to Continuing Conversion: __________________________________
4. Date of Reception of Sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist:______________________________
5. Sponsor(s): ________________________________________________________________________
6. Confirmation Name: _________________________________________________________________
Form RCIA—D
A-9
Rev 06/03
III. Previous Marriage Information
Use this section to keep a record of the various steps completed in the annulment process. Copy
additional pages for additional marriages. The Archdiocese of Washington Marriage Tribunal phone
number is (301) 853-4543.
1. Annulment process for ˆ Inquirer ˆ Inquirer’s Spouse/Fiancé(e) _________________________
ˆ ___/___/___Pastor/Parish Clergy has been informed.
ˆ ___/___/___Inquirer has been informed about annulment process and potential time frame.
ˆ ___/___/___Marriage Tribunal has been contacted for annulment paperwork.
ˆ ___/___/___Inquirer has submitted paperwork to the Marriage Tribunal.
ˆ ___/___/___Marriage has been adjudicated.
Decision: ______________________________________________________________________
Tribunal Contact:
Phone: ______________________________
Case No.
Date: _______________________________
(Arch)Diocese: City, State (Country, if not USA.): ________________________________________
U Declaration of Nullity verified by
Date ______________
2. Annulment process for ˆ Inquirer ˆ Inquirer’s Spouse/Fiancé(e)
ˆ ___/___/___Pastor/Parish Clergy has been informed.
ˆ ___/___/___Inquirer and has been informed about annulment process and potential time frame.
ˆ ___/___/___Inquirer’s Spouse/Fiancé(e) has been informed about annulment process.
ˆ ___/___/___Marriage Tribunal has been contacted for annulment paperwork.
ˆ ___/___/___Inquirer’s Spouse/Fiancé(e) has submitted paperwork to the Marriage Tribunal.
ˆ ___/___/___Marriage has been adjudicated.
Decision: ______________________________________________________________________
Tribunal Contact:
Phone: ______________________________
Case No.
Date: _______________________________
(Arch)Diocese: City, State (Country, if not USA.): ________________________________________
U Declaration of Nullity verified by
Date ______________
A-10
Request for Faculties to
Confirm Baptized Catholics
Archdiocese of
Washington
Instructions
“The Bishop is the ordinary minister of Confirmation. A priest can validly confer this sacrament
only if he has the faculty to do so, either from the general law1 or by way of a special grant from the
competent authority. If, during the celebration of the Easter Vigil a priest wishes to confirm a
Catholic previously baptized but uncatechized and who has participated in the parish’s RCIA
program, he must make this request in writing to the Vicar General in Curia. This delegation is
required for the validity of the sacrament.” (Archdiocese of Washington Sacramental Norms and Policies, p. 22)
I
n accord with the Archdiocesan policy reprinted above, please use Form RCIA—G Request for
Faculties to Confirm Baptized Catholics to request faculties to confirm an individual who was
baptized as a Catholic. Copy this form onto parish letterhead and complete and return to the Chancery
at least one month before the anticipated confirmation date.
Please observe the following distinctions when requesting faculties to confirm a baptized Catholic:
I. A baptized, uncatechized Catholic is someone who was baptized as an infant but received neither
the sacrament of Confirmation nor the Eucharist. In other words, he or she is preparing for the
completion of the sacraments of initiation through both Confirmation and Eucharist. The Church
provides for this individual to participate in the Christian initiation (RCIA) process (cf. “Preparation of
Uncatechized Adults for Confirmation and Eucharist” RCIA, n. 400ff) including certain liturgical rites.
Baptized, uncatechized Catholics may be confirmed at the Easter Vigil (cf. RCIA, n. 409) provided that
faculties to confirm these individuals are requested.
II. A baptized, catechized Catholic is someone who has received the Eucharist and has lived as a
Catholic (e.g. regular attendance at Mass, etc.) but was never confirmed. This individual is not
generally included in the above category of “uncatechized.”
Ideally, individuals who only need to be confirmed would participate in a formation program separate
from the RCIA. If individuals preparing for confirmation do participate in the RCIA process for the
purpose of formation, they would not participate in the liturgical rites.
These individuals would ordinarily be confirmed at the annual archdiocesan celebration of Confirmation
on Pentecost Sunday, which was instituted for the purpose of confirming the adult Catholics in need of
this sacrament. Alternately, these individuals may receive this sacrament at a parish celebration of the
sacrament of Confirmation. If an individual cannot attend one of these two events, the pastor may
request faculties to confirm these individuals at the Easter Vigil.
Contact the Office of Worship (301) 853-5335 with questions.
1
Canon 883 grants the faculty of confirming an adult to a priest who “baptizes one who is no longer an infant or one already
baptized whom he admits into the full communion of the Catholic Church.”
Form RCIA—F
A-11
Rev. 06/03
Request for Faculties to Confirm Baptized Catholics
I wish to request faculties to confirm the following baptized Catholics at the Easter Vigil on
(Date)
at (Parish, City)
Priest who will confer the sacrament, if other than the pastor:
(1) Names of baptized, uncatechized Catholics who will also make their First Communion at
the Easter Vigil:
(2) Names of baptized, catechized Catholics who would only be confirmed at the Easter Vigil:
(3) Reason for requesting faculties to confirm group (2) (e.g. “Unable to attend Archdiocesan
celebration of Confirmation on Pentecost.”)
Pastor
Date
Return at least one month prior to the anticipated Confirmation date to:
Reverend Monsignor Godfrey Mosley
Archdiocesan Pastoral Center, P.O. Box 29260, Washington, DC 20017
FAX: (301) 853-5346
Form RCIA—G
Rev. 06/03
A-12
Sponsor/Godparent Information
Name: (First and Last) _________________________________________________________________
(Please initial after reading the following paragraphs.) I understand that as a sponsor/godparent
I am to live a life in harmony with the nature of this responsibility, meaning, for example, that I
regularly attend Mass and receive the Eucharist; I am not in an irregular marriage, etc. I attest
that I have received the sacrament of confirmation and that I am at least 16 years old.
I also understand that being a sponsor/godparent is a commitment of time. I will attend weekly
sessions for catechesis, the celebrations of liturgical rites and other initiation-related events to the
best of my ability.
I. Contact Information
Mailing Address:______________________________________________Apt: ____________________
City:__________________________State: _________________________Zip: ____________________
Phone: (Daytime)
(Evening/Weekend) _____________________________
Cell Phone:
Occupation: ________________________________
E-mail: (Home)
(Other) _____________________________________
II. Sacramental History
1. Parish Where You Were Baptized: ______________________________________________________
Street Address (if known):_____________________________________________________________
City, State, Zip, Country if not USA: ___________________________________________________
2. Parish Where You Are Currently Registered: _____________________________________________
Street Address: ____________________________________________________________________
City, State, Zip: ____________________________________________________________________
Phone: ___________________________________________________________________________
Pastor’s Name: ____________________________________________________________________
For Office Use
Godparent/Sponsor for:_________________________________________Date: ___________________
Date completed Sponsor Formation: ______________________________________________________
Notes: ______________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
Form RCIA—H
A-13
Rev. 07/04
Certificate of Sponsorship for
(Name of Catechumen or Candidate)
I RECOGNIZE that a sponsor/godparent has a special relationship to the person who is to be
baptized or confirmed. Along with entire parish community, a sponsor/godparent serves as a
model of Christian living for an individual as that person is renewed and strengthened by the
power of the Holy Spirit.
WITH THAT UNDERSTANDING, I recognize that in order to serve as a sponsor/godparent, a person
must:
9 Be a Catholic who has been baptized, received the Eucharist and been confirmed, and
who is currently living a sacramental life (i.e. attending Mass regularly) and is not in an
irregular marriage;
9 Be at least sixteen years of age;
9 Lead a life of faith in harmony with the ministry they are undertaking, and have the
intention of undertaking the ministry of a sponsor;
9 Not be a parent of the individual to be confirmed.
I HEREBY ACCEPT these responsibilities and testify that I fulfill the requirements to serve in
the ministry of sponsor/godparent.
Signature of Sponsor/Godparent
I HEREBY TESTIFY that (name of sponsor/godparent)
is a registered
member of (name of parish)
and affirm
that he/she fulfills all the requirements to serve in the ministry of sponsor/godparent.
[Parish Seal]
Signature of Pastor
Form RCIA—H
A-14
Date
Rev. 07/04
Child/Teen Inquirer Information Form
Information is held in confidence and is not shared without your permission.
Archdiocese of
Washington
Child/Teen’s Name:
First __________________________Middle _____________________Last _______________________
Date of Birth:
Grade:
Place of Birth (City, State, Country, if not USA): ____________________
School: _____________________________________________________
I. Parent/Guardian Information
Parents’/Guardians’ Names and present religious affiliation, if any:
Name: ___________________________________Relationship: _______________________________
Religious Affiliation: _________________________________________________________________
Name: ___________________________________Relationship: _______________________________
Religious Affiliation: _________________________________________________________________
Mailing Address:______________________________________________Apt: ____________________
City:______________________________________State: _____________Zip: ____________________
Best Phone No. to Call: (Daytime)
(Evening/Weekend) _____________________
E-mail:______________________________________________________________________________
II. Religious History
1. Has your child/teen ever been baptized?
U Yes
U No
U I am not sure.
If you answered "Yes" to Question 1., please provide the following information:
(a) In what denomination was your child/teen baptized? __________________________________
(b) Date or approximate age when your child/teen was baptized:____________________________
(c) Place of Baptism (Name of church/denomination): ________________________________________
(d) Address, if known: _______________________________________________________________
(e) City and State, if known; Country, if not USA: _____________________________________________
2. If your child/teen was baptized as a Catholic, check those sacraments he/she has received.
U Penance (Confession)
U Eucharist (First Communion)
Form RCIA—I
U Confirmation
Rev. 07/04
A-15
IV. Family Information
List the name(s) of any siblings. (e.g. John—Brother; Jean—Stepsister.)
Name:
Relationship:
Age: _____
Name:
Relationship:
Age: _____
Name:
Relationship:
Age: _____
IV. Learning Style
Not all people learn in the same way. You can help your child get as much out of this process as possible by
sharing about your child’s learning abilities.
In what ways do you think your child enjoys learning?
Listening (Lecture; Storytelling)
Seeing (Looking at pictures; Identifying symbols; Watching a video.)
Reading (At what grade level does your child read? Does your child enjoy reading?)
Writing (At what level is your child’s writing skills? Does your child like to write stories/keep a journal?)
Hands On (Does your child enjoy doing projects or making crafts?)
Group Work (Does your child enjoy working with others?)
It will help to know your child’s strongest attributes and challenges.
For example: “Mary is very outgoing and gets excited when she is having fun. She becomes quiet when she doesn’t
understand something. She works well with other children. Mary also has a 30% hearing loss in her left ear. She may not
hear you if you are standing behind her and speaking normally.”
A-16
Christian Initiation Information
Use this form to record important dates related to the Christian Initiation process
and other information for sacramental record keeping.
Archdiocese of
Washington
Name: ______________________________________________________________________________
ˆ Has not been baptized
ˆ Has been baptized
ˆ Is not sure if he/she has been baptized
Father's First and Last Names: ___________________________________________________________
Mother's First and Maiden Names: ________________________________________________________
I. For a Person Who Is Not Baptized
1. Date of Participation in the Rite of Acceptance: ___________________________________________
2. Date of Participation in the Rite of Election: ______________________________________________
3. Date of Reception of Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist: ______________________
5. Priest Conferring Baptism: ____________________________________________________________
6. Confirmation Name: _________________________________________________________________
II. For a Baptized Person
1. Baptismal Certificate received by
Date: ____________
2. Date of Participation in the Rite of Welcoming: ___________________________________________
3. Date of Participation in the Call to Continuing Conversion: __________________________________
4. Date of Reception of Sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist:______________________________
5. Confirmation Name: _________________________________________________________________
Form RCIA—J(For Child/Teen)
A-17
Rev 07/04
III. Sponsor/Godparent Contact Information
Name: ______________________________________________________________________________
Mailing Address:______________________________________________Apt: ____________________
City:__________________________State: _________________________Zip: ____________________
Phone: (Daytime)
(Evening/Weekend) _____________________________
Name: ______________________________________________________________________________
Mailing Address:______________________________________________Apt: ____________________
City:__________________________State: _________________________Zip: ____________________
Phone: (Daytime)
(Evening/Weekend) _____________________________
A-18
Appendix 2—Initiation Liturgy Dates
2005 through 2008
Liturgical Date
Liturgical Rite of Initiation
2005
2006
2007
2008
Feb 9
Mar 1
Feb 21
Feb 6
Feb 13
Mar 5
Feb 25
Feb 10
Feb 20
Mar 12
Mar 4
Feb 17
Feb 27
Mar 19
Mar 11
Feb 24
Mar 6
Mar 26
Mar 18
Mar 2
Mar 13
April 2
Mar 25
Mar 9
Mass of the Lord’s Supper
Mar 24
April 13
April 5
Mar 20
Celebration of the Lord’s Passion
Mar 25
April 14
April 6
Mar 21
Mar 26
April 15
April 7
Mar 22
May 15
June 4
May 27
May 11
Ash Wednesday
First Sunday of Lent
Rite of Sending
Can be celebrated at another time prior to
Rite of Election/Call to Continuing Conversion
(RCIA #106 or #530)
Rite of Election and Call to
Continuing Conversion
(RCIA #118 or #547)
Second Sunday of Lent
(N.B. Cardinal’s Appeal is held on this
Sunday each year.)
Third Sunday of Lent
Penitential Rite for Candidates
(RCIA #464)
First Scrutiny for Elect
(RCIA #150)
Fourth Sunday of Lent
Second Scrutiny for Elect
(RCIA #164)
Fifth Sunday of Lent
Third Scrutiny for Elect
(RCIA #171)
Holy Thursday
Good Friday
Holy Saturday
Preparation Rites
(RCIA #185)
EASTER VIGIL
Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist
(RCIA #206 or #566)
Pentecost Sunday
Confirmation of Adult Catholics
(Info mailed from the Office of Worship
to clergy each Spring.)
Please Note:
x “RCIA #n.” refers to paragraph numbers in the book entitled Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults.
x The Rite of Reception of Baptized Christians into the Full Communion of the Catholic Church, RCIA #473,
can take place at any time of the year, not only at the Easter Vigil.
x There is no fixed date for the Rite of Acceptance into the Order of Catechumens and/or Rite of Welcoming
Candidates, RCIA #41, #411 or #505. It can be celebrated on any Sunday or weekday. (cf. RCIA, n. 18)
A-19
Appendix 3—Valid and Invalid Baptisms
What are the Churches and ecclesial communities whose baptisms are recognized as valid
by the Roman Catholic Church?
All Eastern Rite Non-Catholic Churches
(Orthodox)
African Methodist Episcopal (AME)
Amish (and Mennonites)
Anglican (Episcopalian, Church of England)
Assembly of God
Baptist
Church of the Brethren (formerly called
Dunkers)
Church of God
Church of the Nazarene
Congregational Church
Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
Disciples of Christ
Dutch Reformed
Episcopal Church (Anglican)
Evangelical Churches
Evangelical United Brethren
Liberal Catholic Church
Lutheran
Methodist
Old Catholics
Old Roman Catholic Church
Polish National Catholic Church
Presbyterian
Reformed Churches
Seventh-Day Adventist
United Church of Christ
What are ecclesial communities whose baptisms are NOT recognized as valid by the
Roman Catholic Church?
Apostolic Church
Bohemian Free Thinkers
Christadelphians
Christian Scientists
Church of Divine Science
Jehovah’s Witnesses
Masons
Mormons (The Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-Day Saints)
Quakers (Society of Friends)
Pentecostal Churches
People’s Church of Chicago (Dr. Preston
Bradley)
Salvation Army
Universalists
Unitarians
What are the non-Catholic churches whose sacrament of confirmation is accepted as valid
by the Roman Catholic Church?
Eastern Rite non-Catholic Churches (Orthodox)
Polish National Catholic Church
Society of St. Pius X
These lists appear in the diocesan Christian Initiation guidelines from the Diocese of Bridgeport, CT.
A-20
Appendix 4—Creating A Baptismal Record
Canon 876 “If it is not prejudicial to anyone, to prove the conferral of baptism, the
declaration of a single witness who is above suspicion suffices or the oath of the baptized
person, if the baptism was received at an adult age.”
The sample below provides a sense of the wording and format for the “creation” of a
baptismal record, which should be modified according to the particular circumstances, proof
available, etc.
Parish Letterhead
“To whom it may concern:”
(A) If a witness can testify that the person was baptized as a child:
“This is to certify that on this day in my presence
[Full Name of Witness or Witnesses] [Address of Witness or Witnesses]
testified under oath that [he/she] was present in [Place] on [Date (as accurate as
possible)] when
[Full Name of Candidate/Catholic] [Address of Candidate/Catholic]
was baptized by water and the Trinitarian formula.”
(B) If the person was baptized as an adult:
“This is to certify that on this day in my presence
[Full Name of Candidate/Catholic] [Address of Candidate/Catholic]
testified under oath that [he/she] was baptized by water and the Trinitarian formula in
[Place] on [Date (as accurate as possible)].”
“By this document I hereby create in this parish a formal record of the reception of this
sacrament by [Name of Candidate/Catholic.]”
[Signature/Name of Priest/Deacon]
[Office in Parish]
[Date]
[Signature of Witness]
[Parish Seal]
A-21
Appendix 5—Prayers of the Faithful
for Christian Initiation
Include the following intercessions at all Masses once each month so that the entire parish
community might keep the initiation participants in their prayers.
Inquiry
That the men, women and children who wish to learn
about the Catholic Faith may be welcomed by the
Church and see a witness of the Christian life in each of
us, we pray to the Lord.
February
As the catechumens and candidates consider if they are
ready to celebrate the Easter sacraments, may they hear
the Lord speak to their hearts, we pray to the Lord.
Rite of Acceptance
That the catechumens and candidates may be supported
with our prayer as they accept the cross of Christ and
embark upon their journey of faith, we pray to the Lord.
March
That the elect and candidates, acknowledging their sins,
may learn to trust in the Lord's healing and forgiveness,
we pray to the Lord.
October
That the catechumens and candidates may grow in their
love for Jesus by gathering with us for prayer, service of
others, and diligent study of the Faith, we pray to the
Lord.
Passion Sunday
That our Loving Redeemer, through his passion, will
teach our Elect and Candidates self-denial, strengthen
them against evil, and increase their hope, we pray to the
Lord.
November
That the catechumens and candidates may be guided by
their sponsors and teachers as they study and practice
the justice and charity of Christian living, we pray to the
Lord.
Easter Vigil
Lord Jesus, when your side was pierced, there flowed
out blood and water; keep close to you all who have
been reborn through water and the Holy Spirit, we pray
to the Lord.
Advent
That the catechumens and candidates will prepare their
hearts for the Lord's coming by diligent prayer, study,
and works of charity, we pray to the Lord.
Easter Sunday
That those who were reborn in baptism and made one
with us at the Eucharistic Table at the Easter Vigil may
share the glory of Your resurrection and bring new life
to the Church, we pray to the Lord.
Christmas
That the catechumens and candidates may be filled with
the light of faith by the coming of the Word among us,
we pray to the Lord.
Baptism of the Lord
That the catechumens may long for the waters of
Baptism, and the candidates continue to grow in
faithfulness to their baptismal covenant, we pray to the
Lord.
May
That those who have been baptized or received into the
full communion of the Church may grow in a deeper
knowledge of the Lord as they celebrate the Eucharist,
we pray to the Lord.
Neophyte Year
That neophytes and those received into full communion
will continue to follow the Lord through times of joy
and sorrow, we pray to the Lord.
January
That the catechumens and candidates may find what
they seek in Jesus and choose to follow Him, we pray to
the Lord.
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Appendix 6—Sample Bulletin Announcements
For Christian Initiation Inquiry Sessions
Here are ideas for bulletin announcements that raise the awareness of Christian initiation and
invite parishioners or inquirers to take a step in contacting you about Christian initiation
throughout the year.
January
As we celebrate the Baptism of the Lord, let us recall our own baptism. We have all received
the call to go and baptize all the nations. Pray for those who are discerning if they too are
ready to renounce Satan and all his works and empty promises. If there is someone you
think would like to explore what baptism in the Catholic Faith means ask them to call ...
February
Come and see. Are you searching for a church to call your own? Do you struggle with
questions about life, death, suffering, hope, forgiveness, love, God? Sessions exploring these
and other issues in relation to our Catholic faith are being held. Ask about inquiry meetings
by calling ...
March (Lent)
Help bring to the Light those who no longer want to walk in darkness. Invite those who
have never been baptized or who have been baptized in a non-Catholic Christian tradition,
as well as adult Catholics who have not been confirmed to the inquiry messions. For more
information call ...
April (Easter Season)
A number of people have said that what drew them to the Catholic Church was the
Eucharist. As we reflect on recognizing Jesus in the Breaking of the Bread, think for a
moment whether there is someone you could invite to Mass and to explore what else the
Catholic Faith might hold for them. For information on Christian initiation or RCIA, call ...
May
As our Blessed Mother brings us to her Son Jesus, it is our task also to bring others to the
Lord. Is there someone you can invite to explore the Catholic Faith - someone unbaptized
or baptized in a non-Catholic Christian tradition? Perhaps you know a Catholic adult
interested in being confirmed. Call ...
June
As we honor fathers this Sunday, perhaps you can think of someone who longs to have a
closer relationship with our heavenly Father. Can you plant the seeds of hope as you speak
of our Father's loving care, His everlasting promises? Ask about the RCIA Inquiry Sessions
for those who are not baptized, are of other faiths, or are adult Catholics who were not
confirmed by calling...
A-23
July
As we celebrate our country's freedom, let us reflect on the freedom given to us through
Baptism - to be heirs of the promise and liberated from sin. The Rite of Christian Initiation
of Adults or RCIA is the way by which persons become "citizens of the Kingdom" through
Baptism or Confirmation and Eucharist. Inquiry sessions are now being held. For more
information, please call...
August
During the summer, many of you journey far and near for vacations. The Rite of Christian
Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is a journey too -- of faith. RCIA is the process by which
persons who were never baptized, or were baptized in a non-Catholic denomination,
become members of the Church. Please call ...
September
Life has its storms - distressful relationships, jobs, poor health; situations where we feel our
powerlessness. If you know someone unbaptized or baptized in a non -Catholic Christian
tradition, who is searching for strength and understanding to weather such squalls, invite
them to seek the perspective the Catholic Church offers. Please call ...
October
Each year, the summer ends and autumn begins. The leaves change color, the weather turns
colder. Our lives go through seasons also. If you have thought about becoming Catholic
and beginning a new “season” in your life, call ...
November
As we celebrate All Saints Day, and recall those “living witnesses” of the joy and peace that
living the Catholic life can bring, let us ask for the saints’ intercession for those who are
thinking about finding out more about the Church. If someone you know wants to know
more about the Church, call ...
December
The preparations for Christmas include buying or making gifts for those that we love. What
better gift could you give someone than the gift that God has given to us: His Son, Jesus.
Invite someone who is not Catholic to attend Mass with you at Christmas. For information
about the RCIA, call ...
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Appendix 7—Determining an Initiate’s Status
Given the knowledge of the fact and validity of an initiate’s baptism, refer to the table
below to determine any action that needs to be taken and his or her status.
Description of Initiate’s Situation^
Action To Be
Taken
Initiate’s
Status
“I was never baptized.”
N/A
Catechumen
“I was baptized in a denomination whose baptism
is considered invalid.”
N/A
Catechumen
“I was baptized in a denomination whose baptism
is considered valid. Here is my baptismal
certificate.”
N/A
Candidate
“I was baptized as an infant. I cannot procure a
baptismal certificate, but a witness can attest to
it.” (Denomination has valid baptism or description of
baptism seems valid.)
“Create” a
baptismal
record.*
Candidate
“I was baptized as an infant. I cannot procure a
baptismal certificate, but a witness can attest to
it.” (Denomination is not known or description of
baptism by witness does not seem valid.)
Baptize the
individual
conditionally.
“I was baptized as an infant but I cannot procure
a baptismal certificate and there are no
witnesses/other proof.” (Whether denomination is or
is not known.)
Baptize the
individual
conditionally. +
Candidate
“Create” a
baptismal
record.*
Candidate
Baptize the
individual
conditionally. +
Candidate
“I was baptized as an adult.” (Denomination has
valid baptism or description of baptism seems valid.)
“I was baptized as an adult.” (Denomination is not
known or description of baptism does not seem valid.)
^
+
Candidate
See Appendix 3, Page A-16 for a list of Churches and ecclesial communities and whether or not their
baptism is considered valid.
+
See National Statutes for the Catechumenate, n. 37.
* See Appendix 4, page A-17 for information on creating a baptismal record.
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A-26
Appendix 8—How Are We Doing and
How Can We Do It Better?
How Are We Doing?
Name as many of those who have been initiated into the Church in
your parish during the past three years as you can. Find contact
lists to refresh your memory.
Do you see these individuals at Sunday Mass? Are they involved in
other ways in the parish? Have they moved? Are there other
reasons that they may not be practicing the Faith?
Name
Do you see him/her?
A-27
If “No,” do you know why?
How Can We Do It Better?
Here’s What We Are Doing
(1) What happens when someone calls our parish saying
that they want to know more about becoming Catholic?
What does our “precatechumenate” look like?
(2) How do we prepare the initiates and the parish for
the liturgical rites? How do we reflect on these rites
after they take place?
(3) What is our understanding of how well the initiates
will know and live the Catholic Faith? What resources
do we use? What other activities (prayer experiences,
service, “field trips”) do we provide for the initiates to
participate in? Do they understand their responsibility
to participate in the Church’s mission to evangelize?
A-28
One Idea We Might Try
(4) If we dismiss the catechumens from Sunday Mass,
how often do we do so? What takes place at Breaking
Open the Word?
(5) What happens during Lent? Is Lent a time for
“interior reflection” or primarily catechetical instruction?
Do we celebrate all of the Scrutinies, the Presentations,
the Preparation Rites on Holy Saturday?
(6) What is our Easter Vigil like? How many
parishioners attend?
(7) What do we do during the period of mystagogy?
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One Idea We Might Try
(8) How do we initiate children of catechetical age and
teens who need to prepare for baptism or for reception
into full communion?
(9) Who is part of the initiation ministry in our parish?
(10) How supportive is the parish of the initiation
process?
(11) Are the sponsors and godparents for the initiates
involved after the Easter Vigil? What sort of formation
do they receive?
(12) What do we do well regarding initiation? What
really works?
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One Idea We Might Try
In what ways could others
assist in the catechumenate?
Appendix 9—Guidelines for Celebrating the
Sacraments With Persons With Disabilities (Excerpts)
Excerpts from Guidelines for Celebrating the Sacraments With Persons With Disabilities Copyright 1995, United
States Catholic Conference, Inc., Washington, D.C. All rights reserved. Reprinted with permission.
It is essential that all forms of the liturgy be completely accessible to persons with disabilities, since
these forms are the essence of the spiritual tie that binds the Christian community together. To
exclude members of the parish from these celebrations of the life of the Church, even by passive
omission, is to deny the reality of that community. Accessibility involves far more than physical
alterations to parish buildings. Realistic provision must be made for persons with disabilities to
participate fully in the eucharist and other liturgical celebrations such as the sacraments of
reconciliation, confirmation, and anointing of the sick (Pastoral Statement of U.S. Catholic Bishops on
Persons with Disabilities, November 1978; revised 1989).
Preface
Catholics with disabilities, as well as those who minister to or with them, often point out that
pastoral practice with regard to the celebration of the sacraments varies greatly from diocese to
diocese, even from parish to parish. Inconsistencies arise in such areas as the provision of sign
language interpreters for persons who are deaf, in the accessibility of church facilities for persons
with mobility problems, and in the availability of catechetical programs for persons with
developmental and mental disabilities. Pastoral inconsistencies may occur in other areas as well.
The inconsistencies in pastoral practice often arise from distinct yet overlapping causes. Some result
from a misunderstanding about the nature of disabilities. Others arise from an uncertainty about the
appropriate application of Church law towards persons with disabilities. Others are born out of fear
or misunderstanding. Still others are the result of a studied and honest acceptance of the realistic
limitations of a parish's or diocese's available resources.
These guidelines were developed to address many of the concerns raised by priests, pastoral
ministers, other concerned Catholics, persons with disabilities, their advocates and their families for
greater consistency in pastoral practice in the celebration of the sacraments throughout the country.
With this objective in view, the guidelines draw upon the Church's ritual books, its canonical
tradition, and its experience in ministering to or with persons with disabilities in order to dispel any
misunderstandings that may impede sound pastoral practice in the celebration of the sacraments. It
is our hope that the guidelines will complement diocesan policies already in existence.
The bishops of the United States offer the "Guidelines for the Celebration of the Sacraments with Persons
with Disabilities" in order to give a more concrete expression to our longstanding concern for
"realistic provision" for the means of access to full sacramental participation for Catholic persons
with disabilities. While they do not address every conceivable situation that may arise in pastoral
practice, the guidelines present a set of general principles to provide access to the sacraments for
persons with disabilities. Diocesan staff, pastoral leaders, catechists, parishioners, health care
workers, and all those who minister to or with Catholics with disabilities are invited and encouraged
to reflect upon and accept these guidelines in their continuing effort to bring Christ's healing
message and call to justice to the world.
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I. General Principles
1. By reason of their baptism, all Catholics are equal in dignity in the sight of God, and have the
same divine calling.
2. Catholics with disabilities have a right to participate in the sacraments as full functioning members
of the local ecclesial community (Cf. canon 213). Ministers are not to refuse the sacraments to those
who ask for them at appropriate times, who are properly disposed, and who are not prohibited by
law from receiving them (Cf. canon 843, sect. 1).
3. Parish sacramental celebrations should be accessible to persons with disabilities and open to their
full, active and conscious participation, according to their capacity. Pastoral ministers should not
presume to know the needs of persons with disabilities, but rather they should consult with them or
their advocates before making determinations about the accessibility of a parish's facilities and the
availability of its programs, policies, and ministries. These adaptations are an ordinary part of the
liturgical life of the parish. While full accessibility may not always be possible for every parish, it is
desirable that at least one fully accessible community be available in a given area. Parishes may, in
fact, decide to collaborate in the provision of services to persons with disabilities.
4. Since the parish is the center of the Christian experience for most Catholics, pastoral ministers
should make every effort to determine the presence of all Catholics with disabilities who reside
within a parish's boundaries. Special effort should be made to welcome those parishioners with
disabilities who live in institutions or group homes and are unable to frequent their parish churches
or participate in parish activities. However, pastoral ministers should remember that many persons
with disabilities still reside with their families. Pastoral visitation, the parish census, and the diverse
forms of parish and diocesan social communication are just a few of the many ways in which the
pastoral staff can work towards the inclusion of all parishioners in the parish's sacramental life.
5. In accord with canon 777, n.4, pastors are responsible to be as inclusive as possible in providing
evangelization, catechetical formation, and sacramental preparation for parishioners with disabilities.
Persons with disabilities, their advocates and their families, as well as those knowledgeable in serving
disabled persons can make a most valuable contribution to these programs. Parish catechetical and
sacramental preparation programs may need to be adapted for some parishioners with disabilities.
Further, parishes should encourage persons with disabilities to participate in all levels of pastoral
ministry (e.g., as care ministers, catechists, etc.). Dioceses are encouraged to establish appropriate
support services for pastors to facilitate the evangelization, catechetical formation, and sacramental
preparation for parishioners with disabilities.
6. The creation of a fully accessible parish reaches beyond mere physical accommodation to
encompass the attitudes of all parishioners towards persons with disabilities. Pastoral ministers are
encouraged to develop specific programs aimed at forming a community of believers known for its
joyful inclusion of all of God's people around the table of the Lord.
7. In the course of making pastoral decisions, it is inevitable that pastoral care workers will
encounter difficult cases. Dioceses are encouraged to establish appropriate policies for handling such
cases which respect the procedural and substantive rights of all involved, and which ensure the
necessary provision of consultation.
A-32
II. Particular Sacraments
Baptism
8. Through the sacrament of baptism the faithful are incorporated into Christ and into his Church.
They are formed into God's people and obtain forgiveness of all their sins. They become a new
creation and are called, rightly, the children of God. (Rite of Christian Initiation, General Introduction,
n. 1).
9. Because it is the sacrament of universal salvation, baptism is to be made available to all who freely
ask for it, are properly disposed, and are not prohibited by law from receiving it. Baptism may be
deferred only when there is no reason for hoping that the person will be brought up in the Catholic
religion (Canon 868, sect. 1, n. 2). Disability, of itself, is never a reason for deferring baptism.
Persons who lack the use of reason are to be baptized provided at least one parent or guardian
consents to it (Canons 868, sect. 1, n. 1 and 852).
10. So that baptism may be seen as a sacrament of the Church's faith and of admittance into the
people of God, it should be celebrated ordinarily in the parish church on a Sunday or, if possible, at
the Easter Vigil (Canons 856 and 857). The Church, made present in the local community, has an
important role to play in the baptism of all of its members. Before and after the celebration of the
sacrament, the baptized have the right to the love and help of the community (Cf. Rite of Baptism for
Children, nn. 4, 10).
11. Either personally or through others, the pastor is to see to it that the parents of an infant who is
disabled, or those who take the place of the parents, are properly instructed as to the meaning of the
sacrament of baptism and the obligations attached to it. If possible, either the pastor or a member of
the parish community should visit with the family, offering them the strength and support of the
community which rejoices at the gift of new life, and which promises to nurture the faith of its
newest member. It is recommended that preparation programs for baptism gather several families
together so that they may commonly be formed by pastoral direction and prayer, and so that they
may be strengthened by mutual support (Canon 851, n. 2).
12. If the person to be baptized is of catechetical age, the Rite of Christian Initiation may be adapted
according to need (Cf. canons 851, n. 1 and 852, sect. 1).
13. A sponsor is to be chosen who will assist the newly baptized in Christian initiation. Sponsors
have a special role in fostering the faith life of the baptized person. As such, they are to be chosen
and prepared accordingly. Persons with disabilities may be sponsors for these sacraments of
initiation.
Confirmation
14. Those who have been baptized continue on the path of Christian initiation through the
sacrament of confirmation. In this way, they receive the Holy Spirit, conforming them more
perfectly to Christ and strengthening them so that they may bear witness to Christ for the building
up of his body in faith and love (Rite of Confirmation, nn. 1-2).
15. Parents, those who care for persons with disabilities, and shepherds of souls--especially pastors-are to see to it that the faithful who have been baptized are properly instructed to receive the
sacrament of confirmation and to approach it at the appropriate time (Cf. canon 890). The diocesan
A-33
bishop is obliged to see that the sacrament of confirmation is conferred on his subjects who
properly and reasonably request it (Canon 885, sect. 1).
16. All baptized, unconfirmed Catholics who possess the use of reason may receive the sacrament of
confirmation if they are suitably instructed, properly disposed and able to renew their baptismal
promises (Canon 889). Persons who because of developmental or mental disabilities may never
attain the use of reason are to be encouraged either directly or, if necessary, through their parents or
guardian, to receive the sacrament of confirmation at the appropriate time.
17. Confirmation is to be conferred on the faithful between the age of discretion (which is about the
age of seven) and eighteen years of age, within the limits determined by the diocesan bishop, or
when there is a danger of death, or in the judgment of the minister a grave cause urges otherwise.
18. A sponsor for the one to be confirmed should be present. The sponsor assists the confirmed
person on the continuing path of Christian initiation (Cf. canon 892). For this reason, it is desirable
that the one who undertook the role of sponsor at baptism be the sponsor for confirmation (Canon
893, sect. 2).
Eucharist
19. The eucharist is the most august sacrament, in which Christ the Lord himself is contained,
offered, and received, and by which the Church constantly lives and grows. It is the summit and the
source of all Christian worship and life, signifying and effecting the unity of the people of God,
providing spiritual nourishment for the recipient, and achieving the building up of the Body of
Christ. The celebration of the eucharist is the center of the entire Christian life (Canon 897).
20. Parents, those who take the place of parents, and pastors are to see to it that children who have
reached the use of reason are correctly prepared and are nourished by the eucharist as early as
possible. Pastors are to be vigilant lest any children come to the Holy Banquet who have not reached
the use of reason or whom they judge are not sufficiently disposed (Canon 914). It is important to
note, however, that the criterion for reception of holy communion is the same for persons with
developmental and mental disabilities as for all persons, namely, that the person be able to
distinguish the Body of Christ from ordinary food, even if this recognition is evidenced through
manner, gesture, or reverential silence rather than verbally. Pastors are encouraged to consult with
parents, those who take the place of parents, diocesan personnel involved with disability issues,
psychologists, religious educators, and other experts in making their judgment. If it is determined
that a parishioner who is disabled is not ready to receive the sacrament, great care is to be taken in
explaining the reasons for this decision. Cases of doubt should be resolved in favor of the right of
the baptized person to receive the sacrament. The existence of a disability is not considered in and
of itself as disqualifying a person from receiving the eucharist.
21. Eucharistic celebrations are often enhanced by the exercise of the diverse forms of ministry open
to the laity. In choosing those who will be invited to use their gifts in service to the parish
community, the parish pastoral staff should be mindful of extending Christ's welcoming invitation to
qualified parishioners with disabilities.
Reconciliation
22. In the sacrament of reconciliation, the Christian faithful obtain from the mercy of God pardon
for their sins. At the same time, they are reconciled with the Church, which they have wounded by
A-34
their sins and which works for their conversion by charity, example, and prayer (Lumen Gentium, n.
11).
23. Only those who have the use of reason are capable of committing serious sin. Nevertheless, even
young children and persons with mental disabilities often are conscious of committing acts that are
sinful to some degree and may experience a sense of guilt and sorrow. As long as the individual is
capable of having a sense of contrition for having committed sin, even if he or she cannot describe
the sin precisely in words, the person may receive sacramental absolution. Those with profound
mental disabilities, who cannot experience even minimal contrition, may be invited to participate in
penitential services with the rest of the community to the extent of their ability.
24. Catholics who are deaf should have the opportunity to confess to a priest able to communicate
with them in sign language, if sign language is their primary means of communication. They may
also confess through an approved sign language interpreter of their choice (Canon 990). The
interpreter is strictly bound to respect the seal of confession (Canons 983, sect. 2 and 1388, sect. 2).
When no priest with signing skills is available, nor sign language interpreter requested, Catholics who
are deaf should be permitted to make their confession in writing. The written materials are to be
returned to the penitent or otherwise properly destroyed.
25. In the case of individuals with poor communication skills, sorrow for sin is to be accepted even
if this repentance is expressed through some gesture rather than verbally. In posing questions and in
the assignment of penances the confessor is to proceed with prudence and discretion, mindful that
he is at once judge and healer, minister of justice as well as of mercy (Canons 978, sect. 1; 979; 981).
The document contains additional guidelines for the sacraments of Anointing of the Sick, Holy
Orders and Marriage.
The complete text can be found online at http://www.ncpd.org/Sacramental%20Guidelines.htm
For additional information, contact your parish Catechetical Leader or the Archdiocese of
Washington Office for Ministry with Persons with Disabilities 301-853-4560.
A-35
The Sign of the Cross
A Prayer Service in Preparation for the
Rite of Acceptance and Rite of Welcoming
Preparation
Environment:
A crucifix, candle and Bible open to Genesis 12
Set-Up:
Chairs in two or three groups:
___ Catechumens (and sponsors)
___ Candidates for Full Communion (and sponsors)
___ Candidates for Confirmation and Eucharist
Have extra chairs in each group for team members.
Music:
Music books for an Opening and Closing Song and the Psalm
Handouts:
Copy the following handouts and distribute to all as they arrive:
y You Want Me To Go Where?/Come and See (p. 35, 36)
y Rite of Acceptance and Rite of Welcoming Questions and
Responses (p. 37)
Other:
Pens and pencils
Opening Song
Theme: Select a song that focuses on a theme of seeking for or choosing Christ, the
Cross or choose something familiar or something easy to sing
Ideas:
O God, I Seek You—Psalm 63
Lift High the Cross
Joyful, Joyful, We Adore You
Lord, I Lift Your Name on High
Greeting and Introduction
Leader: Today we gather to prepare for the Rite of Acceptance and Rite of
Welcoming, an opportunity for many of you to take a step toward becoming
Catholic and for others who are already Catholic to express your desire to be
confirmed. We’ll listen to the Scriptures and take some time to reflect on your
journey to this point.
Copyright © 2005. Archdiocese of Washington. Permission granted to reproduce this prayer service for use in parishes in the Archdiocese of Washington.
A-36
We begin with a reading from the book of Genesis that speaks of God’s call to
Abram, the beginning of his plan to save us by calling a people to be his own.
Reading I: Genesis 12:1-4a
Personal Reflection: You Want Me To Go Where?
Leader: Just as God called Abram to go to a place he did not know, and Abram had
to follow in faith, so too, God has called each of you to take this step on your
journey of Faith. Take a moment to read the handout, “You Want Me To Go
Where?” and reflect on the questions on the handout in light of this reading.
TO HANDOUT (5 min)
Psalm 33
Leader: Having identified some of our joys and fears as we take this journey, we
respond by reading/singing Psalm 33.
Response:
Ideas:
Happy the people the Lord has chosen to be His own
or
Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you.
Read it, with a group response. (Copy from the Lectionary.)
Sing a version from your parish music resource.
Gospel Acclamation
Sing a familiar Alleluia (or other acclamation if it is Lent) with the following verse:
Verse: We have found the Messiah: Jesus Christ, who brings us truth and grace.
Gospel: John 1:35-42
Reflection: We Have Found the Messiah
Leader: The Church celebrates these “rites of Christian initiation” because she
recognizes that becoming a Christian or deepening your conversion to Christ is a
gradual process.
In the gospel reading we just heard, John the Baptist pointed two of his own
followers, John and Andrew, to Jesus, the Messiah, who had come to save the
Israelite people. The two of them then follow Jesus who first asks them, “What do
you seek?” They respond, “Master, where do you stay?” or “We want to get to know
more about you.” Then Jesus invites them to “Come and see” more about him.
A-37
In your lives, there have probably been many different encounters that have
been like John the Baptist for each of you, some of you have Catholic relatives or
friends who have been role models for you; some of you may have been inspired by
the life of Mother Theresa, Pope John Paul II or more likely, you know a Catholic
family member or friend who has proclaimed the Good News of Jesus Christ
through their life. Maybe you’ve come to believe in the Real Presence of Christ in
the Eucharist. Whatever it is, someone or something has said to you, “Behold the
Lamb of God.” and pointed you toward Jesus.
Walk Through the Rite
Leader: The rite we will celebrate shortly is your opportunity to approach Jesus
through His Church and say as John and Andrew did, “Master, where do you stay?”
to say “I am choosing to follow Christ and find out more about Him and His
Church.” I’d like to take a few minutes and walk through the rite so that you will be
able to enter into it while it takes place.
I.
What Do You Seek?
Ritual Elements explained:
a. Calling of Potential Catechumens: “What Do You Seek?”
b. Decision to Continue the Journey
c. Calling of Potential Candidates: “What Do You Seek?”
d. Decision to Continue the Journey
e. Affirmation by Sponsors and Assembly
Leader: First, there is a greeting. When John and Andrew approached Jesus,
he asked them, “What do you seek?” In the same way, at the beginning of
the rite, Father will ask you, “What do you ask of God’s Church?” “What do
you seek?”
Find the handout entitled “Come and See” and take a moment to think
about what it is that you are seeking and why you are seeking this or what
you believe it promises you. What is it that you are asking of God, through
the Church, as you continue on your journey of faith and how will receiving
this affect your life? We’ll take a few minutes of silence as you complete
sections 1 and 2 of this handout.
TO HANDOUT “Come and See” (5 min)
I’m sure that each of you have different answers. Who would like to
share theirs with the group?
During the Rite, Father will ask you: “What do you ask of God’s
Church?” Since everyone has different answers, let me suggest a common
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answer that everyone can recite together. Look at the handout entitled “Rite
of Acceptance and Rite of Welcoming Questions and Answers.”
TO HANDOUT “Rite of Acceptance and Rite of Welcoming
Questions and Answers”
First, those of you who are preparing for Baptism will answer:
I ask for faith
that I may believe in Christ and his teachings
as they have been handed on by the Catholic Church.
He will then ask you, “What does this faith offer you?”
Through this faith,
I hope to prepare for the sacraments, to grow in holiness
and to receive the promise of eternal life in heaven.
Then, Father will ask those of you who are preparing to be received into
full communion the same question and you will answer:
I ask to be received as a candidate
preparing to be received into the full communion
of the Catholic Church.
He will then ask you, “What does reception into the full communion of
the Catholic Church offer you?”
A fuller sharing in the life of the Church
through the sacraments and living the teaching of Christ
as they have been handed on by the Catholic Church
II.
The Sign of the Cross
Ritual Elements explained:
a. Signing of the Forehead
b. Signing of the Senses
Leader: The apostles were not ready for the task of living the Christian life
fully when Jesus first said to them, “Come and see.” They spent a good deal
of time with Jesus: observing how he lived his life, watching him perform
miracles, being challenged by his teaching. They were shocked by his
horrible death on the cross and three days later, they rejoiced at his
resurrection from the dead. They were commissioned to go out to the
world and tell the Good News that he had come to forgive our sins and to
make it possible for us to live a new life here on earth and enjoy life forever
with him in heaven.
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Each of you have participated in Christian initiation process over the past
few months and have heard the teachings of Christ as handed on by the
Church. You have had an opportunity to meet Catholics on the team and
elsewhere and to consider what it means to be Catholic.
Part of our lives as Catholics and as Christians is the recognition that
there are crosses in our lives. Your cross may be the many challenges to be
charitable, patient and forgiving to family, friends and co-workers that you
encounter each day; the struggle against sin and the striving for holiness; the
call to serve those less fortunate then you are.
We must recall, however, that with Jesus’ cross comes His resurrection.
Sadness is turned to joy. As we embrace our crosses, we are transformed and
“rise again” becoming more like Jesus in our thoughts, our words and our
actions. We come to do everything in the name of Jesus and, in a sense, in
the shadow of the cross. St. Paul says, “But far be it from me to glory
except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been
crucified to me, and I to the world.” (Galatians 6:14)
Today, as part of the rite at Mass, you will be signed with the cross. To
the catechumens, Father will say: “Receive the sign of the cross on your
forehead. It is Christ himself who now strengthens you with this sign of his
love. Learn to know and follow him.”
To the candidates, he will say: “Receive the cross on your forehead as a
reminder of your baptism into Christ’s saving death and resurrection.”
The cross has a double meaning for Christians: First, it is a sign of Jesus’
suffering and therefore a sign that you are willing to take up whatever your
crosses may be and follow him.
With that in mind, I’d like to ask you to take a moment to reflect first on
those things that are crosses or difficulties in your life. How might you be
growing through embracing these crosses? I invite you to turn back to the
“Come and See” handout and read the Scripture in section 3 and respond to
it in the space in section 4.
TO HANDOUT “Come and See” (5 min)
Second, the cross is a sign of new life, the resurrection; it is a reminder
that Jesus has won the victory and offers to share with us the fruits of his
resurrection through the sacraments, especially Baptism, confirmation and
the Eucharist.
Secondly, I would like to ask yourself, “How can I be an image of Christ,
who loved me so much that he died on the cross for me? How can I be
more like him in what I say and do?” There is a space on the “Come and
See” handout in section 5 for you to write down any reflections you have.
TO HANDOUT “Come and See” (5 Min)
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III.
Recognition of Candidates for Confirmation and Eucharist
Leader: Finally, during the Mass, Father will address those Catholics who
preparing for Confirmation and Eucharist and ask them and everyone else to
respond to a question form of the Creed. Since some of you may still be
determining if you believe the things Father will ask, it’s OK for you to
respond or not to respond as you feel comfortable.
Just as John and Andrew encountered Christ when they followed after
him, so it is our hope that each of you will encounter Christ during this Rite:
through Father, who, as a priest stands in the person of Christ; through the
reading of the Sacred Scriptures, the Word of God; and through the
community of the faithful who gather around you to support you and
witness to you the Christian life.
Intercessions
Leader: Let us turn to the Lord and offer him our prayers and needs or
concerns we might have this day.
Response: Lord, hear our prayer.
Closing Prayer
Leader: As we conclude our time of prayer and reflection, let us pray the
prayer on the “Come and See” handout, section 6:
God, bless my ears,
that I may hear Your voice.
God, bless my eyes
that I may see Your glory all around me.
God, bless my lips,
that I may respond to Your word.
God, bless my heart
and come to dwell there
God, bless my hands,
that all I do may be for You.
God, bless my feet,
that I may walk in Your way.
Blessing
Leader:
May the Lord bless us, protect us from all evil,
and bring us to everlasting life.
R./ Amen
Leader: I invite you to join me in making the sign of the Cross as we conclude.
All make the sign of the cross.
Closing Song
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You Want Me to Go Where?
Something To Think About
As the first step in God’s plan to restore
mankind to His friendship after the Fall,
God chose Abram to be the father of a
great nation, from which would come the
Savior, Jesus. The following Scripture
passage is God’s call to Abram.
be like. God asked Abram to have faith
and He made a promise: to bless Abram
and to “Make of him a great nation.”
(This promise was particularly surprising
because Abram was already 75 years old
and Abram’s wife, Sarai had not
conceived any children.)
Now the Lord said to Abram, “Go
from your father’s house to the land
that I will show you. And I will make
of you a great nation, and I will bless
you, and make your name great, so that
you will be a blessing. I will bless those
who bless you, and him who curses you
I will curse; and by you all the families
of the earth shall bless themselves.” So
Abram went, as the Lord had told him.
(Genesis 12:1-4)
Following the Lord meant stepping out
into the unknown, even the unbelievable.
Reread the passage and put yourself in
Abram’s shoes then answer the question
below.
What is God asking of you that seems
unbelievable?
Abram was probably quite comfortable
tending his sheep with his family when
God called him to go to a foreign land.
God didn’t give him a map. He didn’t
show him a vision of what this land would
God In My Life
What is God asking of you at the current time
that is easy or that brings you joy and peace?
God is always at work in our lives. Write
about how you think God has worked in your
life in the past or about how you think God
might be working at this time in your life.
What is God asking of you at the current time
that seems difficult?
Copyright © 2005. Archdiocese of Washington. Permission granted to reproduce this handout for use in parishes in the Archdiocese of Washington.
© Copyright 2002. Archdiocese of Washington. Permission granted to reproduce this prayer service for parishes in the Archdiocese of Washington.
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“Come and See”
1. What Do You Seek?
2. What Does This Offer You?
What are you are seeking as you take this step
toward becoming Catholic/ being confirmed?
How will receiving what you are seeking affect
your life.
3. He Died on the Cross for Me
5. Becoming More Like Jesus
Take a moment to reflect on Jesus’ love expressed
through his becoming one of us, his healing and
teaching, his dying on the cross and rising from the
dead.
Think about and/or write down one way that
you can be more like Jesus in what you say or do.
For God so loved the world that he gave his
only Son, that whoever believes in him should
not perish but have eternal life. For God sent
the Son into the world, not to condemn the
world, but that the world might be saved
through him. (John 3:15-17)
6. Prayer Starter
Greater love has no man than this, that a
man lay down his life for his friends.
(John 15:13)
God, bless my ears,
that I may hear Your voice.
God, bless my eyes
that I may see Your glory all around me.
God, bless my lips,
that I may respond to Your word.
God, bless my heart
and come to dwell there
God, bless my hands,
that all I do may be for You.
God, bless my feet,
that I may walk in Your way.
4. Take Up Your Cross
Think about and/or write down some of the
“crosses” in your daily life.
Prayer adapted from the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults ©1985,
International Committee on the English Liturgy.
Copyright © 2005. Archdiocese of Washington. Permission granted to reproduce this handout for use in parishes in the Archdiocese of Washington.
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Rite of Acceptance and Rite of Welcoming
Questions and Responses
Those Who Are Preparing for Baptism
Celebrant: “What do you ask of God’s Church?”
I ask for faith
that I may believe in Christ and his teachings
as they have been handed on by the Catholic Church.
Celebrant: “What does this faith offer you?”
Through this faith,
I hope to prepare for the sacraments,
to grow in holiness
and to enjoy eternal life in heaven.
Those Who Are Preparing to be Received into
the Full Communion of the Catholic Church
Celebrant: “What do you ask of God’s Church?”
I ask to be received as a candidate
for further instruction in the teachings of Christ
as handed on by the Catholic Church
that I may be received
into the full communion of the Church.
Celebrant: “What does reception into the full communion of the Catholic Church offer you?”
A fuller sharing in the life of the Church
through the sacraments
so I may grow in holiness
and enjoy eternal life in heaven.
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Sample Catechumenate Session Outline
Theme
Date
6:30 p.m. (15 min)
Catechist
TEAM Arrange Space
Prepare prayer space
Arrange chairs
Prepare nametags
Prepare __ Bibles, __ Songbooks
Prepare refreshments
Prepare handouts
6:45 p.m. (10 min)
TEAM Welcome participants/guests/new people.
6:55 p.m. (05 min)
TEAM Ask everyone to move to their seats
7:00 p.m. (05 min)
Handout List
At the BEGINNING:
Prayer—
Saint of the Day—
At the END (For next week)
Follow-Up or Questions from Last Time/Question Box/
Housekeeping
Final comments on previous session/Ask if anyone had any more questions.
1)
2)
3)
Introduce the Evening
Take a second to situate the evening. Some “lead in” lines are suggested below.
“This week we’re going to pick up where we left off last week…”
“This week we’re going to switch gears slightly…”
“Several weeks ago, we discussed ‘X.’ This week, we’re going to look at how this applies in another
situation..”
7:05 p.m. (10 min)
Opening Prayer
A prayer, Scripture reading(s), song, etc. that ties into some aspect of the evening
or presents a basic Christian prayer form w/a brief explanation first, if necessary.
1) Make a brief Intro/Explanation before Prayer, if necessary.
2) Afterward, provide Scripture citation(s) or other source of the prayer.
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7:15 p.m. (30 min)
Evening Presentation: TOPIC
Introduce speaker, if necessary.
Key Teaching Points (If they hear nothing else, they have heard these.)
1)
2)
3)
7:45 p.m. (10 min)
Break
7:55 p.m. (15 min)
U Sm Gp Discussion (#__x __ People) U Large Gp Discussion U Activity
Suggested Discussion Questions or Plan for Activity:
1)
2)
3)
8:10 p.m. (10 min) U
Saint of the Day
U
Catholic Practice
U
In My Life
Announcements/People to See Afterward
8:20 p.m. (05 min)
1)
2)
3)
8:25 p.m. (05 min)
Closing Prayer
A simple prayer service, Scripture reading or song that ties into some aspect of
the evening, the liturgical calendar or presents a basic form of Christian prayer.
8:30 p.m. Refreshments
8:45 p.m. (15 min)
TEAM CLEAN UP
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Celebration of the Word of God
[Long Form]
Date
Topic
Preparation of Liturgical Space
Opening Song
Title
Music Resource
Number
Sign of the Cross
When all have gathered, a suitable song may be sung. After the singing, the
leader says:
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.
R/. Amen
Greeting
A minister who is a priest or deacon greets those present in the following or
other suitable words, taken mainly from sacred Scripture.
May the God of wisdom, knowledge, and grace be with you always.
R/. And also with you.
A lay minister greets those present in the following words:
Let us praise the God of wisdom, knowledge and grace.
Blessed be God for ever.
R/. Blessed be God for ever.
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7/05
Introduction to the Word of God
The leader may prepare those present for the evening’s catechesis by
commenting briefly on the Scriptures about to be proclaimed:
First Reading
Citation
Reader
Psalm Response
Citation
Reader/Cantor
How will the psalm be prayed?
U Recited—All together
U Recited—Alternating Sides
U Sung—Refrain (All)/Verses (Cantor)
U Sung—Alternating Sides
Music Resource
Second Reading
Number
Citation
Reader
Gospel Acclamation Verse
Number
Music Resource
Gospel
Citation
Reader
If the minister is a priest or deacon:
The Lord be with you.
R/. And also with you.
A reading from the holy gospel according to N.
R/. Glory to you, Lord.
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7/05
Homily/Reflection
The leader may give a brief reflection on the Scripture readings. Another option
is to go around the room allowing each person to share a brief reflection on the
reading or to “pass” by saying “Amen.”
Prayer of Blessing, Minor Exorcism or Anointing of the Catechumens
A Blessing of Catechumens (RCIA, n. 97), Minor Exorcism (RCIA, n. 94) or
Anointing of the Catechumens (RCIA, n. 102) may be celebrated at this point.
Source:
Prayer of Blessing for the Candidates for Full Communion
A Blessing of Candidates may also be celebrated at this point.
Source:
Opening Prayer
The leader concludes in these or similar words:
Let us pray.
Lord, pour out on us the spirit of understanding, truth and peace.
Help us strive with all our hearts to know what is pleasing to you,
and when we know your will make us determined to do it.
We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.
R/. Amen
From the Roman Missal Masses and Prayers for Various Needs
and Occasions: “16. For Pastoral or Spiritual Meetings.”
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7/05
Opening Prayer (cont’d)
OR
Source:
Closing Song
Title
Music Resource
Number
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7/05
ARCHDIOCESE OF WASHINGTON
P.O. Box 29260
Washington, DC 20017
www.adw.org
OFFICE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION
RCIA and Children’s Initiation
301-853-5335
Hispanic Liturgy and RCIA
301-853-5334