It occurs to me that there are two dominant models according to which the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults is understood and practiced. In one, the RCIA is primarily a process of catechesis ordered toward the intellectual and/or spiritual development of the participants; in the other, it is primarily a series of rites leading to Baptism.
Archive for category Initiation / RCIA
Two Models of the RCIA
Feb 3
The Conversion of Saint Paul
Jan 25
A prayer from The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults is aptly used on this day, when the Church celebrates the conversion of Saint Paul.
As promised several weeks ago, the first of my Ph.D. comprehensive examination topics, covering the area of Christian Initiation and the period of the Reformation.
It is time to consider what awaits us if the other rites of the Church receive the same treatment as the Missal.
The National Catholic Register has interviewed Bishop Aquila to shed some light on the topic of “restored order” for the sacraments of initiation.
The US Catholic bishops voted 204-11 last fall to approve the agreement. The Presbyterian Church-USA has also ratified the agreement. The Reformed Church in America and the Christian Reformed Church are scheduled to consider the agreement at their respective national gatherings this summer. Delegates to the UCC’s 28th General Synod in Tampa will deliberate and potentially approve the Common Agreement on Mutual Recognition of Baptism.
Pricey First Communion
Jun 17
Parents in Ireland spend €1,000 (= $1,428) on average on their child’s First Communion.
With all that baptism promises, why wouldn’t one want it to be a party?
In preparation for producing a documentary of the Paschal Triduum 2011, I recently oversaw the production of several half-hour TV programs following the elect on their journey to the baptismal waters at St Thomas More Catholic Church in Chapel Hill, NC.
The Missale Romanum 2002 has a few surprises in it, including what amount to changes in the RCIA.