Ninety enthusiastic RCIA leaders gathered recently in Edmonton, Alberta, to explore the deep structure of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults and how we can use that to make disciples.
We began on Friday evening and discussed the underlying principles of the RCIA. These six principles can be used to guide any formation process, including first communion preparation, confirmation preparation, marriage preparation, and even seminary formation. The principles are applied to a four-part catechetical process that flows from a Catholic Christian understanding of God’s word, the Body of Christ in both the community and in worship, and apostolic service and witness to the world.
How to do RCIA
We then spent all day Saturday looking in detail at how to apply these principles to the initiation process. Of the 15 full tables of participants, two tables of RCIA leaders were especially focused on how all this works when we adapt the process for children.
Along with TeamRCIA, the institute was cosponsored by the Western Conference for the Catechumenate, which will be celebrating its 25th anniversary next year of annual gatherings for catechumenate ministers. The WCC is directed and coordinated by four amazing people, Susan Barylo, Michelle Sieben, and Dave and Sandy Marshall. Their fabulous preparation and facilitation made the institute flow smoothly and seamlessly.
The presenters at the institute were TeamRCIA cofounders Nick Wagner and Diana Macalintal.
One participant said:
“This institute helped me to understand the whole process and what is expected of me. Nick and Diana are knowledgeable, effective presenters, and they provided us with practical information and principles.”
Find RCIA training for your team
The institute will be taking place in seven other dioceses in 2014. To find out if TeamRCIA will be in a city near you, click here.
Share your thoughts
If you participated in the institute, please share some of your thoughts about it below.
