The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the process in which adult men and women become part of the Catholic Church. Through its witness, worship, service and catechesis, the whole parish community offers the invitation and support necessary for men and women to be welcomed as members of the community.
Adults who are not yet baptized are accepted into the process as catecheumens and prepare to receive the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist) at Easter each year.
Those already baptized in another Christian tradition are welcomed as candidates for full communion and prepare to be received into the Catholic Church at a suitable time.
A team of Catechists and sponsors, led by the Director of the process, journeys with the catechumens and candidates for a number of months, meeting weekly. This year it begins on Wed. October 2nd at 7 p.m. in the upper parish hall at St Mary's in Simcoe. It continues most Wednesdays until the Easter Vigil.