If you are not Catholic, please accept this invitation to inquire (no obligations) about becoming a Catholic. For more information please  contact Myco Wulkopf at:
314-647-5611
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RCIA IS A process of initiation into. . .

… a relationship with Jesus
… a relationship with the Catholic faith Community
… a perspective on life

Have you ever wondered, “What is the question!”?

Jesus Christ gives us the insight and hope we need to cope with life’s questions. Jesus makes it possible for us to see purpose and promise far beyond our immediate experiences. Jesus invites us to fullness of life but He does not force us to accept it. Jesus honors the free will created in us and waits for each of us to open our lives to Him.

You might find it curious to know that not everyone understands Jesus the same way. Not even all Christian religions interpret Jesus and His message the same way. You are wise to want to seek answers for your questions. The Catholic Church recognizes that faith and questions about faith are not to be taken lightly. The Catholic faith is an entire approach to life which holds a personal relationship with Jesus, and His Gospel is at the very core. The Catholic Church invites you to consider RCIA if you are open to Jesus, His message, and His community of followers.

The RCIA process consists of four stages:

• Pre-Catechumenate: The first stage is a period of questions and conversation called “Pre-Catechumenate.” During this period the RCIA Team and the Inquirers get to know each other and deal with any and all impression or questions the Inquirers have about Jesus and the Catholic Church.
  
• Catechumenate: When (and if) the Inquirers are ready, they move into a period of instruction called the “Catechumenate.” During this period the Inquirers are introduced to the major themes and doctrines of the Catholic Church. A major feature of this period is the Inquirer’s “Sponsor” who is a practicing Catholic and a companion to the Inquirer throughout the Catechumenate process.
• Enlightenment: This stage is more a time of prayer and experience than instruction. This period coincides with Lent. The “Enlightenment” process comes to a climax at the Easter Vigil Mass when the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and First Holy Communion are celebrated.
• Mystagogia: A short period of time immediately following Easter. During this period the RCIA Team helps the fully initiated Catholic (formerly the “Inquirer”) “enter the mysteries” by reflecting on what has just been experienced and aiding the fully initiated Catholic in the planning of a continuing course of action.

St. Michael the Archangel Parish’s
Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA)

• Invites Inquiries at any time during the year
• Convenes a group of Inquirers each September
• Typically meets on Tuesday evenings, 7-9:00 P.M.
• Celebrates the Sacraments of Initiation at the Easter Vigil Mass (March or April)