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JOURNEY OF FAITH

The Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA), also known as Journey of
Faith, is the way in which Catholic Christians hand on and witness to their
faith.  The process of becoming Christian is a lifelong journey of deepening
our relationship with God and understanding what it is to be God's people,
the Church.

All the members of the parish participate in this journey with those seeking
faith.  Everyone is called to participate in the steps and stages along the
way.  Occasionally, there are simple rites of welcome into the community,
the rite of election (celebrated with the Bishop), as well as the Sacraments
of Baptism, Holy Communion and Confirmation.

The steps of the Journey, marked by sacred rites, introduce a person to the
life, liturgy and love of the Catholic Christian family.  There is no set
length of time, but there are distinct stages.

Enquiry

A gentle enquiry period where parishioners meet with enquirers and the
parish priest to explore what it means to be a Catholic.

Welcome

The sacred rite by which a person formally becomes a catechumen, or
candidate, and asks to be received into the parish community.

Catechumenate

Deep reflection into one's relationship with God through the Word of God and
Catholic tradition.

Election

The call to become a member of the Catholic Church.  Following election,
catechumens continue an intense preparation for Sacramental initiation.

Sacraments of initiation

Full communion into the Body of Christ as a member of the Catholic Church
through Baptism, Holy Communion and Confirmation.

Mystagogy

A time to reflect on the experience of the journey of faith.  New members
are encouraged to participate fully in the life and service of the parish.