"Welcoming, charitable, and empowered to live the Gospel"
Some comments from previous RCIA participants
“The experience has brought me closer to my family, expanded my sense of community, and helped me develop a sense of inner strength and peace that was previously unavailable.”
--Mike
“When I finally realized that God had been knocking and asking to come in for a long time, I entered the RCIA process with a desire to let Him in. I had many questions and the team always made me feel very comfortable. I found the time to be so nurturing that I joined the team and have been happily helping others answer their questions ever since."
--Jennifer
"The RCIA process provided me with a perfect introduction to a new church. I've gone from knowing no one in this faith community about a year ago to being welcomed with smiles and some familiar faces. The process of following Sunday Mass by our prayer and reflection on the Gospel message was inspiring. Learning about the Catholic Church in an atmosphere of love, acceptance, and community was evangelization in the true sense of sharing the Good News of Jesus.
Having laity and religious sharing viewpoints and life journeys together was an important part of the process for me - and probably for all of us. I felt free to share my faith story and to ask questions in the group. I really appreciate all the time and energy that so many people spent teaching and welcoming us into the Church!"
--Peggy
RCIA stands for "Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults". It is a program run by adult members of the parish. RCIA requires a modest commitment in time but we think you will find the process a lot easier than you might expect. In addition, we have found that everyone who becomes involved, young or old, highly religious or moderately so, finds it to be a wonderful experience.
An invitation is extended to...
Our Mother of Good Counsel parish community invites you to meet with members of the RCIA team who welcome your interest and questions regarding the Catholic Church and our parish community. This team of volunteers assists people who would like to experience full communion in the Catholic Church and the richness of the Christian life.
There are many reasons for wanting to learn more about the Catholic Church. The good news is that the Catholic Church in Our Mother of Good Counsel Parish (OMGC) has an excellent program for you. It is called the RCIA.
Signing up is easy. Just contact Sr. Anne Woodeshick, our Coordinator of the RCIA process, by phone (610-525-0147 ext. 234) or email. She will set up a date to meet with you to discuss your desire to take a closer look at the Catholic faith community.
The RCIA process initially consists of seven weekly meetings in the evening with the RCIA team in what are called Inquiry Sessions. As you continue into the second phase of the process, participants gather for a sharing of the weekly scripture readings after the 9:30 Sunday mass.
Are there only certain times when l can join RCIA?
No. Although there is a basic cycle to the RCIA sessions, which is announced in the OMGC bulletin, new participants are accepted throughout the year and at any time.
Before I decide to join, can I talk to someone who has already gone through the process?
Yes. Any member of the RCIA team will be glad to answer your questions or put you in contact with former participants. Feel free to contact Sr. Anne Woodeshick by phone (610-525-0147 Ext. 234) or email.
Do I have to memorize a lot of prayers and creeds?
No. After you are received into the Church your regular attendance will allow you to gradually learn the words of the liturgy and prayers.
How much preparation must I do for each session?
For each session (Inquiry or Scripture), there will be a planned topic of discussion. You will be given a three or four page article to read for the next week. This normally takes 5 to 30 minutes.
Must I be a baptized Christian to join?
No. If you have not been baptized, that sacrament will be part of your RCIA process.
What do I do if I‘m thinking about joining the Catholic church?
Contact Sister Anne Woodeshick, RSM, by phone (610-525-0147, ext 234) or email.
What happens at each Inquiry Session?
There will be a few members of the RCIA team along with current RCIA participants like you. Discussion is initially focused on the planned topic, but the conversation is usually far ranging. Participants are encouraged to ask questions. At some sessions, you will be shown a video on the planned topic.