The catechumenate is an extended period during which the candidates are given suitable pastoral formation and guidance, aimed at training them in the Christian life (RCIA 75)

The Four RCIA Trainings
There are four trainings that must take place during your time in the RCIA:

1. Catechetical training -- understanding what the Church teaches, and more importantly, deepening your wonder at the mystery of how God is saving the world in Christ
2. Spiritual training -- living the Christian life more deeply through regular prayer, personal authenticity, and loving service to others
3. Liturgical training – learning how to participate in the community’s acts of prayer and worship
4. Apostolic training – working actively with others to spread the Gospel and build up the Church

Note that only some of these trainings take place on Sundays. For the rest, we invite you to rely on the help of your sponsor, the wider resources of the Church, and your own growing awareness of God’s guidance in your life. 

RCIA Formation Sessions

• Sunday catechetical sessions take place virtually over Zoom on Wednesday evenings from 7:00-8:30pm for all catechumens, candidates, sponsors (spouses are welcome too). This is where much of your catechetical training takes place.
• Optional opportunities for additional formation may be offered at the parish or on Zoom (i.e. a practical session on how to go to confession; a discussion of natural family planning with other parishioners).
• Weekly emails will provide information about the next formation session, including the assigned reading, catechist, additional resources, and upcoming RCIA and parish events.

• To support you in prayer
• To provide a sponsor to accompany you on your journey
• To offer you opportunities to participate in parish life, ministries, and service
• To initiate you into the Catholic Church when you are ready
• To follow up with you with opportunities for mystagogy after you are initiated

• Attending Mass each week, unless COVID-19 related issues, sickness, or serious conflict prevents you
• Practicing daily prayer
• Attending all RCIA rites and retreats
• Attending all RCIA sessions, unless sickness or serious conflict prevents you
• Setting aside time each week to prepare for the RCIA session through reading and reflection
• Checking in with your sponsor outside of the RCIA session at least every two weeks
• Finding opportunities outside of Sunday for spiritual and apostolic training (i.e. developing relationships with other Catholics, participating in local ministries)
• Participating in opportunities for mystagogy after your initiation