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St. Maximilian Kolbe Catholic Church |
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Joining the Catholic Community Welcome to St. Maximilian Kolbe Catholic Community. It is a privilege for us to present to you a brief summary of the way one would journey together with us in becoming a member of the Catholic Church. The Second Vatican Council, held in the 1960’s, was a significant event in the life of the Catholic Church. The effect of the documents produced by the Council will be felt for years to come as the People of God work together to interpret how the Spirit inspired the Council, and what implications that has on the Church in the modern world. Modeled after the ancient practices of the Church, a period of preparation called the Catechumenate has been reestablished into contemporary missionary activity of the Church. The Second Vatican Council decreed its restoration, revision, and adaptations to local traditions. The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is a return to the way early Christian communities welcomed new members into their faith. This faith journey is not undertaken alone; you are accompanied by a sponsor and the entire parish faith community. RCIA is a powerful sign to those who are already members of the church that the Spirit of God is working in and through all people. The Rite of Christian Initiation (RCIA) begins when a person, after hearing of the mystery of Christ, begins to consciously and freely seek out the living God and enter the way of faith and conversion as the Holy Spirit opens one’s heart. Through God’s help and with the assistance of the community one is strengthened spiritually during a period of preparation. When the time is right, the sacraments of initiation are received. RCIA includes more than a simple celebration of the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist (Communion). There are also specific rites or rituals that belong to the Catechumenate. Rites for the catechumen (a person who has not yet received Christian baptism) and baptized persons who have not been educated in the faith are celebrated together. The reception of baptized Christians into full communion with the Church and the celebration of Christian Initiation into the Church by those previously baptized usually takes place at the Easter Vigil. The initiation of catechumens is a gradual process. All members of the church join the catechumens in reflecting on the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, and by joining with the catechumens on this journey the church recalls and shares their own stories of conversion. There are three steps in the initiation process:
In the second period, a catechumen will continue to receive additional catechesis (religious education and formation). There are additional rites marking progress through this period of preparation. This period may last 2 years or more. The second period ends on the day of Election (presentation of the candidates to the local bishop). The third period begins with the Rite of Election. This usually coincides with the season of Lent (a period 40 days prior to Easter). These final days of preparation are a time for enlightenment and intense personal reflection. This concludes with the celebration of the sacraments of initiation at the Easter Vigil. The final or fourth period runs throughout the Easter season and is referred to as the period of Mystagogy. This is a time for post-baptismal instruction where the Christian experience is deepened. The newly baptized and received continue to experience spiritual growth and prepare to enter more fully into the life and unity of their faith community. In reality the period of Mystagogy continues for all the faithful throughout their entire lives. If you want to learn more about the Catholic Church, prepare for initiation into the Catholic Church through Baptism, or receive First Communion as an adult, RCIA is the process to investigate. RCIA meets on Monday evenings at 7:30PM in Room 2. RCIA for Children also meets on Monday evening at 6:30 PM. Children six years or older who are unbaptized and children in third grade and beyond who have completed a first year of Communion preparation are invited to enroll in this process. Contact the Religious Education office at 818-991-3915 extension 113 for more information If you are interested in pursuing your interest in the Catholic faith, you may also contact any of the following members of the parish. The Parish Receptionist 818-991-3915 kolbe@stmaxchurch.org
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St. Maximilian Kolbe Catholic Church |