RCIA stands for Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults. While RCIA was developed for those interested in becoming Catholic as an adult, it is also ideal for those who are seeking to learn more about the Catholic faith and grow deeper in their relationship with Jesus. RCIA is also a tremendous resource for people who are already Catholic but would like a refresher course on what the Church teaches.

We begin our RCIA gatherings by attending the 8 AM Sunday Mass together. After hearing the Scriptures proclaimed and the homily (sermon) preached, the unbaptized and non-Catholics dismiss in order to meet as a group to enter even deeper into the Gospel reading for that day. This is referred to as "Breaking Open of the Word." Our trained staff members show those who attend this portion of the gathering how to pray with the Scriptures. This is done with the intention of growing in holiness and closeness with Jesus through praying with and pondering the Gospel of the day. After this time of prayer concludes, which typically is around 9 AM, we have a break for social conversation and fellowship. This is followed by a discussion on a specific topic of faith each week. These religious discussions typically begin around 9:15 AM and conclude around 10:15 AM. Books and videos are provided to help each participant learn the basics of each topic beforehand so that he or she can feel more confident in participating in the faith-filled dicussion.

RCIA is a great opportunity for each participant to meet others who are interested in growing closer to our Lord, Jesus, and who also want to be part of a community of faith. Additionally, it is a great opportunity to learn the fundamental teachings of Catholicism from a Catholic perspective as opposed to hearing Catholic teachings from someone who is providing inaccurate information about Catholicism. This detail is more important than some may realize. If you think about it, how can anyone make an informed decision if they do not have accurate information to base their decision upon? Come and see what the staff at St. Joseph has to say and share about the Catholic faith so that you can decide for yourself what is true regarding Jesus and faith.

For those in RCIA who want to join the Catholic Church, they are prepared to receive their Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation). They typically receive these Sacraments at the Easter Vigil Mass. Those who just want to learn more about our faith are welcome to participate in all of our prayer gatherings and discussions with no obligation to become Catholic at the end of the process. 

• Non-baptized adults (someone at the age of 7 or above) who wants to be baptized into the Catholic faith as well as confirmed and receive their first Holy Communion.
• Adults who have already been baptized in a Christian denomination yet now want to become Catholic.
• Baptized Catholic adults who have never received their first Holy Eucharist or have not been Confirmed. 

If you would like to participate in RCIA, please contact Bridget Becker at b.becker@dbqarch.org or call 319-377-4869 ext. 109 and ask about the RCIA process. It is FREE.
God bless you!

Click HERE to read an article written by one of our members who recently went through the RCIA process and received his Sacraments of Initiation at the Easter Vigil Mass.