RCIA begins on Sunday, October 13th at 12:30 with lunch and introductions.
Come to Our Lady Queen of Peace Parish Center, 401 S. Owen Drive.
Come to Our Lady Queen of Peace Parish Center, 401 S. Owen Drive.
FAQ's Becoming Catholic
Are you or someone you know interested in becoming Catholic?
The R.C.I.A., or the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults, is not a program or a class in Catholicism.
With the support of the Church, it is a process to discern God's call to turn one’s heart to the life of Christ.
Often, adults enter the process wanting to discover if the Catholic Church is their spiritual home, where their relationship with the God and God's people can thrive.
Who is the R.C.I.A. for?
† Adults who have never been baptized and seek information on becoming a Catholic Christian
† Adults baptized in another Christian tradition and desire to become Catholic
† Adults baptized Catholic and now wish to prepare for the sacraments of Holy Eucharist and/or Confirmation
† Anyone considering Catholicism as a way of life, and wishes to learn more about it to inform their decision
What are the steps to becoming Catholic?
The RCIA process is divided into four spiritual stages. The names of the stages are: Inquiry, Catechumenate,
Purification & Enlightenment, and Mystagogy. Each phase respects the individual’s journey of faith.
The community celebrates a special ritual at the conclusion of each stage that leads participants into the next stage.
At what point does a person actually become Catholic?
New members are received into the Church when we celebrate the risen Lord at the Easter Vigil Mass. At this evening Mass, the new members embody the Risen Christ in a special way by receiving the sacraments of initiation. Following the Easter Vigil, there are fifty days of Mystagogy; the communal process of living into the mystery of what it means to be a fully initiated Catholic.
If I am a Christian, why can't I receive communion until the Easter Vigil?
The guidelines for receiving Communion, issued by the U.S. bishops, says, "We welcome our fellow Christians
to this celebration of the Eucharist as our brothers and sisters. We pray that our common baptism and the action of the Holy Spirit in this Eucharist will draw us closer to one another and begin to dispel the sad divisions which separate us. We pray that these will lessen and finally disappear, in keeping with Christ’s prayer for us ‘that they may all be one’ (John 17:21).
"Because Catholics believe that the celebration of the Eucharist is a sign of the reality of the oneness of faith, life, and worship, members of those churches with whom we are not yet fully united are ordinarily not admitted to Communion. Eucharistic sharing in exceptional circumstances by other Christians requires permission according to the directives of the diocesan bishop.
What if I was already baptized in another Christian tradition?
The Catholic Church universally recognizes Christian Baptisms that were administered with holy water and the words, “I baptize you in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit” (Trinitarian Formula). Once someone has been validly baptized, the person already has a Christian identity and should not be baptized a second time.
What if I was confirmed in another denomination, do I need to be re-confirmed in the Catholic church?
People who have already been confirmed are re-confirmed and receive Communion as part of being brought into “full communion” in the Church at the Easter Vigil.
What is actually involved when we come to the Sunday sessions?
† HOSPITALITY
Every session begins with sharing a meal as we discuss your questions and insights about Catholicism. At particular times, we will connect with the wider parish community for different forms of prayer, celebrations, learning and service experiences.
† STUDY
We are blessed to have a pastor, dedicated priests and parish staff who can engage learners new to Catholicism. RCIA sessions are scheduled on the second and fourth Sundays of each month starting in October from 12:30-3:00 pm. Our gathering place is the Parish Center: 401 S. Owen. This building is next to our church and has a separate entrance.
† SUNDAY WORSHIP
The expectation is that anyone in the process participates at Sunday liturgy weekly.
† PRAYER
Through participation in Sunday Mass, retreats, praying with the Scripture readings, and other kinds of devotional prayer, RCIA participants are able to nourish their hunger for God and community.
† SERVICE
Outreach to others is essential to the Christian way of life. Members of the parish staff, and RCIA team will introduce RCIA participants to several opportunities to care for our brothers and sisters in need.
What if I feel I just don’t know enough about the Catholic Church?
That’s okay. The RCIA is a time of exploration, where people can ask questions and learn about the Church. People come into the process with a variety of religious backgrounds, and some come having no formal experience with a faith tradition. More times than not, there are many areas about the Church where participants feel less comfortable and have questions.
Additionally, RCIA should not be considered a “class”. We want you to discover God on a personal level. There are no tests or grades. It is a time for you to grow in your relationship with God and the Catholic Church.
Is it common to feel unsure about my relationship with the God, and Catholicism?
Yes. Many people are unsure and go through times of uncertainty and questioning. That is normal and healthy.
It is a sign that you are taking your spiritual growth seriously. The fact that you are asking the question is an indication that you are moving toward God, and that God is acting in your life. The desire for a relationship with God is in itself a sign of God’s presence.
The main goal of the RCIA team is assisting participants on the journey of growing in relationship with Jesus.
Whether or not a person joins the Church is secondary. RCIA is a time of exploration, prayer and discernment.
What if I get started and decide this isn’t for me?
Faith in God and the decision to become a member of the Catholic Church are personal choices that must be made in an atmosphere of complete freedom and without any pressure. There is no obligation placed upon participants to become members of the Catholic Church. There are times during the RCIA process for you to explore your intentions and continue to discern God’s call. Everything shared during the sessions will be treated with confidentiality and respect.
What is a Sponsor?
A sponsor is a confirmed, active member of the Catholic Church, who is willing to be a guide or spiritual companion to you throughout the process. If you don’t know of anyone to ask, we will be happy to introduce you to someone with the gifts for this special role.
What do sponsors do?
Whenever possible, sponsors participate with you at the Sunday sessions, as well as the transitional rites within the process and at the Easter Vigil when the sacraments are celebrated. In addition to the Sunday sessions, time is set aside for you and your sponsor to pray together and share regularly about your experiences of the process. A sponsor is someone who is a good listener and helps you identify for yourself where God is leading you.
Can my spouse or fiancé be my sponsor?
A spouse may participate in the RCIA with you or may choose to be a sponsor to another candidate; however we suggest that an unrelated person or another member of the Catholic community be your sponsor. This provides an opportunity to broaden your perspective. You do not need to find your own sponsor. We have members from our parish that have volunteered to join you in this effort.
May I bring a friend?
Yes, we encourage it! As a matter of fact, spouses, fiancés, and sponsors are especially encouraged to join us on a regular basis.
If I’m engaged to a Catholic does that mean I have to join RCIA?
No. You don’t have to be Catholic to marry a Catholic in the Church. The decision to join the RCIA process is one that should be made by yourself, because it’s something you want to do, not because you feel you have to do.
If I’m engaged to a Catholic, can I become Catholic in time for the wedding?
That depends on when the wedding is, but generally it’s best to enter into one serious commitment at a time. There are always exceptions to the ideal practice, and the needs of participants are cared for on an individual basis with Msgr. Ken, our pastor.
Is it a ‘deal-breaker’ if I’m divorced and want to join RCIA?
Being divorced does NOT affect your ability to go to Mass and be received into the Church. If you are planning on getting remarried in the Church or you or your spouse is in a second or third marriage, our pastor will guide you through an annulment process and will advise you accordingly. Because the length of time to process annulments can vary, it’s best to start the paperwork with our pastor as soon as possible if you are planning on getting married in the Church.
Is there a cost for participating in RCIA?
No. We supply you with everything you need. Some of the materials you will download from this learning site. As someone who is ‘trying on’ the Catholic culture, look for ways you can contribute your time, talent, and/or treasure to the parish in a manner that would be meaningful to you.
Are there things I can do at the parish before RCIA starts?
You are invited to participate in our parish life in any of the following ways:
The R.C.I.A., or the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults, is not a program or a class in Catholicism.
With the support of the Church, it is a process to discern God's call to turn one’s heart to the life of Christ.
Often, adults enter the process wanting to discover if the Catholic Church is their spiritual home, where their relationship with the God and God's people can thrive.
Who is the R.C.I.A. for?
† Adults who have never been baptized and seek information on becoming a Catholic Christian
† Adults baptized in another Christian tradition and desire to become Catholic
† Adults baptized Catholic and now wish to prepare for the sacraments of Holy Eucharist and/or Confirmation
† Anyone considering Catholicism as a way of life, and wishes to learn more about it to inform their decision
What are the steps to becoming Catholic?
The RCIA process is divided into four spiritual stages. The names of the stages are: Inquiry, Catechumenate,
Purification & Enlightenment, and Mystagogy. Each phase respects the individual’s journey of faith.
The community celebrates a special ritual at the conclusion of each stage that leads participants into the next stage.
At what point does a person actually become Catholic?
New members are received into the Church when we celebrate the risen Lord at the Easter Vigil Mass. At this evening Mass, the new members embody the Risen Christ in a special way by receiving the sacraments of initiation. Following the Easter Vigil, there are fifty days of Mystagogy; the communal process of living into the mystery of what it means to be a fully initiated Catholic.
If I am a Christian, why can't I receive communion until the Easter Vigil?
The guidelines for receiving Communion, issued by the U.S. bishops, says, "We welcome our fellow Christians
to this celebration of the Eucharist as our brothers and sisters. We pray that our common baptism and the action of the Holy Spirit in this Eucharist will draw us closer to one another and begin to dispel the sad divisions which separate us. We pray that these will lessen and finally disappear, in keeping with Christ’s prayer for us ‘that they may all be one’ (John 17:21).
"Because Catholics believe that the celebration of the Eucharist is a sign of the reality of the oneness of faith, life, and worship, members of those churches with whom we are not yet fully united are ordinarily not admitted to Communion. Eucharistic sharing in exceptional circumstances by other Christians requires permission according to the directives of the diocesan bishop.
What if I was already baptized in another Christian tradition?
The Catholic Church universally recognizes Christian Baptisms that were administered with holy water and the words, “I baptize you in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit” (Trinitarian Formula). Once someone has been validly baptized, the person already has a Christian identity and should not be baptized a second time.
What if I was confirmed in another denomination, do I need to be re-confirmed in the Catholic church?
People who have already been confirmed are re-confirmed and receive Communion as part of being brought into “full communion” in the Church at the Easter Vigil.
What is actually involved when we come to the Sunday sessions?
† HOSPITALITY
Every session begins with sharing a meal as we discuss your questions and insights about Catholicism. At particular times, we will connect with the wider parish community for different forms of prayer, celebrations, learning and service experiences.
† STUDY
We are blessed to have a pastor, dedicated priests and parish staff who can engage learners new to Catholicism. RCIA sessions are scheduled on the second and fourth Sundays of each month starting in October from 12:30-3:00 pm. Our gathering place is the Parish Center: 401 S. Owen. This building is next to our church and has a separate entrance.
† SUNDAY WORSHIP
The expectation is that anyone in the process participates at Sunday liturgy weekly.
† PRAYER
Through participation in Sunday Mass, retreats, praying with the Scripture readings, and other kinds of devotional prayer, RCIA participants are able to nourish their hunger for God and community.
† SERVICE
Outreach to others is essential to the Christian way of life. Members of the parish staff, and RCIA team will introduce RCIA participants to several opportunities to care for our brothers and sisters in need.
What if I feel I just don’t know enough about the Catholic Church?
That’s okay. The RCIA is a time of exploration, where people can ask questions and learn about the Church. People come into the process with a variety of religious backgrounds, and some come having no formal experience with a faith tradition. More times than not, there are many areas about the Church where participants feel less comfortable and have questions.
Additionally, RCIA should not be considered a “class”. We want you to discover God on a personal level. There are no tests or grades. It is a time for you to grow in your relationship with God and the Catholic Church.
Is it common to feel unsure about my relationship with the God, and Catholicism?
Yes. Many people are unsure and go through times of uncertainty and questioning. That is normal and healthy.
It is a sign that you are taking your spiritual growth seriously. The fact that you are asking the question is an indication that you are moving toward God, and that God is acting in your life. The desire for a relationship with God is in itself a sign of God’s presence.
The main goal of the RCIA team is assisting participants on the journey of growing in relationship with Jesus.
Whether or not a person joins the Church is secondary. RCIA is a time of exploration, prayer and discernment.
What if I get started and decide this isn’t for me?
Faith in God and the decision to become a member of the Catholic Church are personal choices that must be made in an atmosphere of complete freedom and without any pressure. There is no obligation placed upon participants to become members of the Catholic Church. There are times during the RCIA process for you to explore your intentions and continue to discern God’s call. Everything shared during the sessions will be treated with confidentiality and respect.
What is a Sponsor?
A sponsor is a confirmed, active member of the Catholic Church, who is willing to be a guide or spiritual companion to you throughout the process. If you don’t know of anyone to ask, we will be happy to introduce you to someone with the gifts for this special role.
What do sponsors do?
Whenever possible, sponsors participate with you at the Sunday sessions, as well as the transitional rites within the process and at the Easter Vigil when the sacraments are celebrated. In addition to the Sunday sessions, time is set aside for you and your sponsor to pray together and share regularly about your experiences of the process. A sponsor is someone who is a good listener and helps you identify for yourself where God is leading you.
Can my spouse or fiancé be my sponsor?
A spouse may participate in the RCIA with you or may choose to be a sponsor to another candidate; however we suggest that an unrelated person or another member of the Catholic community be your sponsor. This provides an opportunity to broaden your perspective. You do not need to find your own sponsor. We have members from our parish that have volunteered to join you in this effort.
May I bring a friend?
Yes, we encourage it! As a matter of fact, spouses, fiancés, and sponsors are especially encouraged to join us on a regular basis.
If I’m engaged to a Catholic does that mean I have to join RCIA?
No. You don’t have to be Catholic to marry a Catholic in the Church. The decision to join the RCIA process is one that should be made by yourself, because it’s something you want to do, not because you feel you have to do.
If I’m engaged to a Catholic, can I become Catholic in time for the wedding?
That depends on when the wedding is, but generally it’s best to enter into one serious commitment at a time. There are always exceptions to the ideal practice, and the needs of participants are cared for on an individual basis with Msgr. Ken, our pastor.
Is it a ‘deal-breaker’ if I’m divorced and want to join RCIA?
Being divorced does NOT affect your ability to go to Mass and be received into the Church. If you are planning on getting remarried in the Church or you or your spouse is in a second or third marriage, our pastor will guide you through an annulment process and will advise you accordingly. Because the length of time to process annulments can vary, it’s best to start the paperwork with our pastor as soon as possible if you are planning on getting married in the Church.
Is there a cost for participating in RCIA?
No. We supply you with everything you need. Some of the materials you will download from this learning site. As someone who is ‘trying on’ the Catholic culture, look for ways you can contribute your time, talent, and/or treasure to the parish in a manner that would be meaningful to you.
Are there things I can do at the parish before RCIA starts?
You are invited to participate in our parish life in any of the following ways:
- Attend one of our weekend Masses (Sat. 5 & 7 pm; Sun. 8:00, 9:30 or 11:15 am), and indicate that you would like to receive a blessing from our priests by placing your hands on your heart during the distribution of the Eucharist.
- Call Mary Jo (231-4610) and request a tour of our parish campus.
- Go to our parish website (www.qopc.org) and get an overview of the people and places included in our parish.
- Read the weekly bulletin; it's available online and passed out by our ushers following Mass.
- Attend events at the parish that interest you.
- Feel free to make an appointment with our pastor, Msgr. Ken Fiedler, Msgr. Jim Uppena, Fr. Bill Nolan, or Mary Jo Trapani, Director of RCIA to discuss any questions or concerns you may have regarding the process at our parish. To make an appointment with any of our priests call 231-4600.
For more in depth questions and answers about RCIA visit:
http://www.usccb.org/beliefs-and-teachings/who-we-teach/rite-of-christian-initiation-of-adults/index.cfm
http://www.usccb.org/beliefs-and-teachings/who-we-teach/rite-of-christian-initiation-of-adults/index.cfm