Christian Initiation

Christian Initiation of Adults

Christian Initiation of Children

 

For additional information on Christian Initiation, contact

 

Teri Burns, Director of Faith Formation               tburns@strobertchurch.org        616.676.9111 ext 15

 

Terri Nausieda, Initiation & Adult Coordinator      terrin@strobertchurch.org          616.676.9111 ext 18

 

 

RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS (RCIA)

The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults is a process that offers individuals the opportunity to learn more about the faith and teachings of the Catholic Church while they deepen their relationship with Jesus Christ.

 

The stages of the initiation journey are

  • Inquiry – An opportunity to ask questions in order to learn more about the Catholic Christian faith
  • Catechumenate – A period of apprenticeship and deeper learning about life as a Catholic Christian
  • Mystagogy – Continued growth in relationship with Jesus Christ and development in living the Catholic Christian faith

 

If you have questions about the faith and teachings of the Catholic Church, join us for Inquiry.

 

After the Inquiry period, those who are looking toward full initiation into the Catholic Church participate in the period of the Catechumenate, gathering for dismissals at the 11 a.m. Mass. Dismissal sessions include reflection on the Sunday readings. Sessions for exploring foundational Church teachings are held on Monday evenings.

 

Full initiation into the Catholic Church is celebrated at the Easter Vigil with Mystagogy gatherings continuing throughout the season of Easter.

 

Inquiry:                                                              6:30 p.m. Mondays, Sept 30 – Nov 18, 2013

Sponsor Training:                                              6:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan 2, 2014

Catechumenate:                                                6:30 p.m. Mondays, Jan 6 – March 3, 2014

Dismissals:                                                       during 11 a.m. Sunday Masses, Jan 12 –                                                                                 April 13, 2014

Period of Purification & Enlightenment:             6:30 p.m. Mondays, March 10 – April 7, 2014

Retreat:                                                              11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Sunday, April 13, 2014

Celebration of Sacraments at Easter Vigil:        7 p.m. Saturday, April 19, 2014

Mystagogy:                                                        Sundays, April 27 – June 8, 2014 10 – 11 am


CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF CHILDREN

Children who are age 8-18 who have not been baptized are prepared for full initiation into the Catholic Church by celebrating the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Communion. They participate in weekly faith formation classes at their grade level and also participate in sacrament preparation sessions and the rites of the RCIA.