(Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults)

Simply put, if you fit into any of these categories: are (1) unbaptized; (2) baptized in another Christian church; or (3) baptized in the Catholic Church but are still in need of receiving First Eucharist and/or Confirmation, and you feel called to the truth of Christ and His Church and want to share in that truth by becoming a Christian in full communion with the Roman Catholic Church, then the R.C.I.A. is where you should be.

The Catholic Church does not “recruit,” and therefore is not seeking you out as a member, because it does not have to.  You are not here merely because we wanted you here, nor are you here purely of your own volition.  For as Christ told us, “You did not choose me, but I chose you…” (John 15:16).  You therefore assented to Christ’s call, realizing that truth has but only one source; that truth can never assume the shape of a plurality, but can only be that which is universal.  For if you come to the conclusion that “man does not live by bread alone, but that man lives by everything that proceeds out of the mouth of the Lord” (Deut 8:3), then you will further conclude that “apart from [Christ] you can do nothing” (John 15:5).  This is why you feel called to the Church and the R.C.I.A. process.

So, if you feel called to full communion with the Roman Catholic Church, then consider joining the R.C.I.A. program here at the Quasi-Parish of Ave Maria Oratory. R.C.I.A. is a program of faith discernment, as well as a time for you to grow in prayer, in study, in community, and to come to understand and participate in the liturgical life of the Roman Catholic Church. In order to register for these classes, you must complete an “Adult Inquirer Information Form” from the Parish Office, and return the form, along with a copy of your Baptismal Certificate (if you have one), and proof of First Reconciliation/First Communion (if applicable to you as a Catholic) to the Parish Office.  Full registration is required in order to attend classes.

Registration inquiries are to be directed to the Parish Office at 239-261-5555.  Any inquiries regarding the classes themselves should be directed to the Coordinator of Religious Education, Andrew Steele, at AndrewMJSteele@gmail.com or 239-220-0100.