Please enjoy this 5 minute video of the 2023 Easter Vigil when our RCIA and RCIC were received into the church.
Catholicism is a way of life and becoming Catholic is a journey in faith. The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is a process, rooted in history, which seeks to do more than simply give interested persons information.
Becoming Catholic involves entering into relationship with a community of God's people. Our hope is that you will enjoy a deeper relationship with God as you also become acquainted with members of JGS and the Catholic Church throughout the world.
This is a unique time for you. You will no doubt notice how your own life experiences and beliefs have brought you to this point as you listen to God's invitation. At the same time, members of the parish are praying for you, attending classes with you, and sharing their own life stories as Catholics.
RCIA is for anyone who is interested in the Catholic faith and has not yet received the 3 Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist). Participants in RCIA can have any faith background; there is no prerequisite. To respect the sensitive nature of the process, we refrain from inviting general visitors/parishioners to attend.
If you were baptized "in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit," then you will not be baptized again. When becoming a full member of the Catholic Church, those who have already received baptism will make a profession of faith and will receive the sacraments of First Eucharist and Confirmation.
RCIA is a gradual process, a spiritual journey, within the community of the faithful. Weekly classes are held during the school-year to teach about the faith, which are broken up into 5 stages. Special Rites mark the various steps on the journey; the final Rite which makes you a full member of the Catholic Church happens on Easter Vigil.
You are encouraged to attend every class, along with our one-day spring retreat. There is no cost. There are no tests. The most important things that will be asked of you are your time and heart - to be open to hearing, learning and discovering God and his immense love for you.
Questions? Email Mike Dorsett.