Crazy Catholic Question #98: Why Do Catholics Do That?

Are YOU someone….Or do you KNOW someone who….
· Often wonders “Why do Catholics do that?”
· Has expressed an interest in becoming Catholic?
· Has never received First Communion?
· Has never been Confirmed?
· Has a child over the age of seven who has not been baptized?

If you are interested in learning more about the Catholic Faith or perhaps have been thinking of becoming a member of Christ the Redeemer, you may wish to consider being a part of our RCIA process.

The RCIA, which stands for Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, has its origins in the earliest centuries of the Church as a way for welcoming new members into the Catholic community. It is an ancient practice of the Church restored by the Second Vatican Council as the normal way adults prepare for baptism and enter the Catholic Church. It includes several stages marked by study, prayer and rites at Mass. Participants undergo a process of conversion as they study the Gospel, profess faith in Jesus, and eventually (at their own pace) receive the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist. The RCIA is a profound and beautiful way of responding to the words of Jesus: “Come, follow me.”

A friend of mine likened RCIA to those who go through the process of becoming a U.S. Citizen. They enter knowing little about our country but by the time they are naturalized they often know more about our American heritage and history than natural-born citizens. So too with the RCIA. Those participating in the process often end up knowing much more about our rich tradition, history and faith than many of our “cradle Catholics.”

Next Saturday evening at the Easter Vigil we will welcome 14 people who have been preparing all year at our weekly RCIA gatherings with prayer, study and deep discussion to celebrate the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist.

In short, if you hail from another tradition, we genuinely hope the experience of our community has sparked an interest in knowing more about our Catholic tradition. We also recognize that there are many reasons why some baptized Catholics have never received the Sacraments of First Communion or Confirmation. Whatever your reasons or motivation, just know it is never “too late.” Our door is always open. You are welcome to participate in the process with your questions, your insights and your unique story in a warm accepting setting. For more information please contact Lisa Brown and/or send your "Crazy Catholic Questions" to dre@ctredeemer.org.