R.C.I.A. Thrives in Difficult Times

By Greg Morelli

In its 11th year here at St. Mary's the RCIA ministry is stronger than ever. With the support of the St. Mary's community the RCIA has helped over 100 adults complete their Christian initiation or convert to Catholicism during the past ten years. This year we have one of our largest classes ever.

In the past 18 months we have experienced terrorist attacks on our homeland and corporate scandals that have had a devastating effect on our economy. At a time when our sense of personal and financial security has been challenged, we are also faced with a Crisis in the Church. However, through it all, people in our community have continued to turn to Jesus as their savior. This year we have 11 witnesses to the strength of our faith; mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, sons, daughters, husbands and wives who have chosen to complete their Christian initiation or convert to Catholicism.

In past years, events such as marriage, birth of a child or the loss of a loved one have been the catalyst for many of our RCIA participants. While this year's group includes several candidates experiencing these life events, we have many that are reaching out to Jesus to help them realize and understand what is really important in life. I invite all of you to do the same. Whether it's a personal and private commitment or through the RCIA, I encourage you to hear His word. The RCIA is always welcoming new candidates and team members.

On December 15 the eleven Candidates celebrated the Right of Acceptance at the 11 o'clock mass. They declared their intention to the Church - asking for Faith and Eternal Life - and the Church accepted them as a person who intends to become a member by living their life according to the teachings of Jesus. On March 9 they will go before Bishop Riley at St. Paul's Cathedral for the Rite of Election. At this Rite the Church formally ratifies their readiness for the sacraments of initiation and they express the will to receive these sacraments. On April 19th the culmination of all their preparation is celebrated at the Easter Vigil as they complete the Rites of Initiation through the sacraments of Baptism and/or Confirmation and Eucharist. It is a truly awesome experience that only an awesome God could make possible. I invite you to join us for this wonderful and joyous occasion.

Greg Morelli is parish RCIA coordinator.