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RCIA is a process of conversion and divided into four steps:
- First Step: Pre-Catechumenate.
This is the time for inquirers to hear
the Word of God. But, more importantly, it is a time for community members to
listen to the inquirers and answer their questions.
- Second Step:
Catechumenate. The inquirers are now called catechumens.
They now move to being people who have already begun to live as Christians,
even though they are not yet full members of the Church. At this time,
sponsors from the community serve as guides, companions, models, and teachers
of the faith for them.
- Third Step: Lenten Period before Initiation.
"The Rite of
Election" introduces this third step and marks the final Lent before the
catechumens receive the Sacraments of Initiation. Beginning with the first
Sunday of Lent, the catechumens enter into their "40-day retreat" to
focus on deepening their awareness of God’s grace through prayer. The Church
celebrates other rituals with the catechumens, called "Scutinies."
These are prayers of healing prayed by the community (on the third, fourth and
fifth Sundays of Lent) that the catechumens will remain free from sin as they
journey toward initiation, continued conversion and maturing faith.
- Fourth Step: Post-Initiation.
This last part of the journey of faith
is called "mystagogia," from the word mystery. It is a time
in the Easter Season when the community explains the mystery of the sacraments
that the catechumens have experienced. In reality, this step continued for the
rest of a Christian’s life. We are all constantly growing toward closer
relationships and deeper understandings of the mysteries of faith.
(Graphic used with permission. Copyright 1996, Thomas
Scharbach. All rights reserved).
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