Christian Initiation for Linked Parishes
Loading...
Author
Rogers, Kaye
Date
1996
Degree
Master of Arts in Pastoral Theology
Abstract
"Evangelization is necessary for Christian initiation. Men
and women hear the gospel proclaimed, by word and deed, and come
to a particular Christian community as a result of this initial
stirring faith. The process whereby adults both hear and respond
to this gospel in the Catholic community is called the Rite of
Christian Initiation of Adults: (RCIA)" (Morris, p.7). This rite
of initiation is the response to a mandate by the Second Vatican
Council to restore the catechumenate process for adults wishing
to join the Catholic community of faith. "The rite of
initiation is suited to a spiritual journey of adults that varies
according to the many forms of God's grace, the free cooperation
of the individuals, the action of the Church, and the
circumstances of time and place" (RCIA-Par.6-Intro.). Depending
on the background of the people requesting that they be allowed
to join the faith community, the rite can be adapted to meet
their specific needs. "Taking into account existing
circumstances and other needs, as well as the wishes of the
faithful, the minister should make full use of the various
options allowed in the rite" (RCIA-Intro., par. 34).