What is RCIA? RCIA is the ministry of God's welcoming embrace symbolized by the Church's acceptance of new members of the family of Catholic Christians. RCIA is a journey of faith that not-yet baptized persons as well as baptized persons complete with the help of a sponsor, the catechists, the discernment team, and, above all, on the strength of their own conviction. The only requirements for joining are a heart open to on-going conversion, a desire to explore a Catholic Christian idenity, and become community.
Have you been thinking about joining the Church? Do you feel Catholic? Would you like to deeper meaning for your presence at Sunday's liturgy? If you answered "yes" to any of those questions, prayerfully consider joining on the path of discovery of your true spiritual identity.
Interested in becoming Catholic? Each springtime, Sacred Heart Catholic Church hosts Inquiry Sessions for those interested in Catholicism. Click here for more information on the upcoming schedule of meetings.
Who can attend the Inquiry Sessions? The Inquiry Sessions are for those who are considering the possibility of joining the Catholic Church and for those adult who were baptized Catholic who would like to complete their Sacraments of Initiation (i.e., Confirmation and Eucharist).
For more information please contact us at RCIA@sacredheartfla.org or call Jennifer Williams (813)230-0616 or e-mail her at bluedog28@verizon.net.
Are you already part of RCIA at Sacred Heart and looking for the group's home page? Click here.
Frequently Asked Questions About RCIA
At this time I have no intention of joining the Church but I do want to learn more about Catholicism. Is there a place for me in the RCIA process? Yes! We all learn from one another and from our journey to know God better. Please join us for the next Catholic Inquiry Session and we can discuss what path may be best for your continued journey.
What will be asked of me in this RCIA process? Anyone seeking information about the Catholic faith is welcome to attend any of the RCIA sessions. As the process proceeds, and if you so desire to be baptized into the Catholic faith community, we encourage you to strive to attend all the sessions and other RCIA events. There are times during the RCIA process for you to explore your intentions and continue to discern God's call.
What if I was baptized but not as a Catholic? Most Christian baptisms are universally recognized by the Catholic Church! You are welcome to explore the Catholic faith, and as the process continues, if you so choose, you can prepare to join the Catholic faith through the RCIA process. Prayer, discernment, and reflection are part of the RCIA experience.
I have already been baptized in the Catholic faith but have not received any other of the Catholic Sacraments (Holy Communion, Confirmation, etc). Can I still attend the sessions? Yes! Our sessions together will build upon your foundation as a baptized Christian. Preparation for reception of Holy Communion and of Confirmation are part of the RCIA process.
Is there any cost associated with RCIA?
None whatsoever.
What is expected of Me? All that is needed is a sincere desire to grow and learn. Attendance is expected at meetings at 7:00 pm on Monday nights and at one of the selected Masses each Sundays. In addition there are special events throughout the process which require attendance and participation. Each member of the RCIA is encouraged to spend some time each week in prayer and to read the reflection materials received from time to time. The Monday night sessions are opportunities to raise questions and dialogue with the material. People who feel comfortable sharing questions and reactions are encouraged to do so. |
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