Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (R.C.I.A.)

We welcome all those who are interested in becoming members of the Catholic Church including those never baptized, those who were raised in other faiths and who are interested in the becoming Catholic, Catholics who for whatever reason never completed their Sacraments or were not raised practicing religion, and former Catholics who have been away from the Church and are considering returning. Our RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) prepares those who have chosen to become full members of the Catholic Church. The group meets on Sundays in the chapel from 9:00 am 10:00 am. from September through May. For adults, the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, First Eucharist and reception into full communion of the Church are usually administered at the Easter Vigil each year.

Rooted from the very beginning of Church tradition, the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (R.C.I.A.) is the path for welcoming new inquirers into our community of believers. If you, or someone close to you, are considering becoming a member of the Catholic community here at Our Lady of Mount Carmel then please accept our invitation to join with us weekly on Sunday. In a small group discussion format, we use this opportunity to discuss the biblical readings of the week, “unpacking” the layers of meaning, look into church tradition, and review church teachings. Most importantly, we share the relevancy of all this in our lives today. We will discuss questions regarding the Rite itself, look at what the Rite offers all believers during this wonderful spiritual journey, and how the Church uses the Rite for those seeking any or all of the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and First Eucharist.

We encourage those already members of the community to consider being sponsors, walking with and supporting the inquirers where by sharing your faith you will receive the gift that comes by helping others grow in theirs. Please welcome them warmly into our church.

For further information, contact: John Spotorno, RCIA coordinator, E-mail: johnspotorno@gmail.com  or Cell phone (650) 303-6292