A while ago, I wrote about the very first stages of RCIA – how we first come in contact with an enquirer and how we need to welcome them, the first stage of the process called the precatechumenate, and the role of the sponsors.
RCIA is a liturgical process, because this is how we ‘enter’ into Christ – through the sacraments, which are part of the Liturgy. The liturgical component doesn’t simply come at the end, however; if you have a look at the RCIA ritual book it is full of the liturgies of RCIA (with not too much guidance on the catechesis!). One thing is clear: the liturgical ‘gateways’ are a vital part of the process.
The first one of these is the Rite of Acceptance (for catechumens) or Welcoming (for baptised candidates). It comes after a period of evangelisation, at a point when the catechumen has reached a decision that they would like to receive preparation for Baptism. Before the whole parish community, they ask from God’s Church the gift of “Faith”, professing that this is what will give them “Eternal life”. Not only do they express their commitment to the Catechumenate, but they also receive the grace in this Rite to carry it out.
I will write more on the Rite and the preparation for it, but for now I want to focus on the pastoral element that precedes this point.
Tomorrow morning we have a mini “retreat” in preparation for the Rite which will take place on Sunday.