Formation & Liturgical Rites
As part of your individualized plan, you can expect to be invited
into the following experiences:
Weekend Mass​​
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Mass is the source & summit of our faith. In lieu of weekly classes, we simply ask all who desire to become Catholic to commit to participation in the Mass with open minds & hearts. To help you get the most out of your Sunday experience, we will give you a Mass Journal, asking you to be attentive to what you hear Jesus speaking to you through the readings, homily, prayers, as well as any questions that arise. These will be discussed with those accompanying you on your faith journey.
Participation in the Life of the Community​
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Each month you will be invited to participate in or observe 2 to 3 events happening in parish life (social, spiritual & service oriented), and guided with reflection questions to process your experience. This provides a reflective introduction into the lived reality of Catholic faith.
You will have the opportunity, if and when you so desire, to declare your intention to become Catholic and enter a deeper phase of formation in preparation to receive the Sacraments of Initiation. This marks the beginning of your journey through RCIA, which stands for the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults.
This transition is marked by the Rite of Acceptance (for the unbaptized) or Rite of Welcoming (for those already baptized), which can be celebrated during a weekend Mass multiple times throughout the year to accommodate your journey. After celebrating the appropriate rite, you move into a new phase of formation which may entail:
Dismissal Sessions​
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This formation opportunity is only for those who are not yet baptized. This entails being dismissed from Mass after the Scripture readings and sent forth with a blessing to continue praying with the scriptures & discussing the meaning of God's word for our lives.
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Those already baptized are not dismissed, but instead encouraged to participate as members of Christ's Body in praying the Creed, the Universal Prayers (Prayers of the Faithful), and joining in the Eucharistic Prayer.
Monthly "Becoming Catholic" Sessions​​
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Formation sessions will tentatively be held one Sunday/month. This is an opportunity to go deeper into the questions and topics pertinent to your journey as you prepare for the Sacraments of Initiation and train for a life of Catholic discipleship. Members of our faith community will be present to guide the learning & discussion, provide relevant prayer experiences and share their testimonies of faith. Childcare can be provided on an as needed basis.
When ready for initiation: Those seeking baptism will be welcomed into the Church during an Easter Vigil, with special liturgical rites leading up to it during the lenten season. Those only needing Confirmation and/or Eucharist can be received into full communion at anytime during a regular weekend Mass.