If you have questions about either program, please eamil Heather Hannaway or phone her at (978) 256-2374, ext 226.
Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults
If you are looking for Rite of Christian Initiation for Children and Teens, click here.
RCIA Registration: Baptised Christian
RCIA Registration: non-Christian
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) process is especially designed for individuals who are interested in learning about the Catholic faith and have an interest in joining the Catholic Church. It is also for adults who were baptized in the Catholic faith but never continued their religious instruction or received other sacraments. Instructional sessions usually begin in September and conclude shortly after Easter Vigil.
A Process, Not a Program
The RCIA can best be described as a process of coming to know Jesus Christ on a personal level. Coming to know Jesus cannot be fitted into a thirty-week instruction program. It is a process of ever-deepening growth and commitment -- a process that continues long after you are initiated into the Catholic Church. We will try to help you discover your readiness to make that commitment to Christ in and through the Church. We will celebrate your journey to Christ in various rituals throughout the process. Finally, the RCIA is very much a public process that takes place in the context of the community of St. Mary’s. The ceremonies or rites that we celebrate usually take place at the Sunday liturgies, when our community comes together to worship. In summary, the RCIA is a faith journey. Each of us has a unique path for our faith development. Therefore, there is no obligation on the part of anyone to “join the church.” We stand ready to assist you in reflecting upon whether God is calling you at this time to follow him in and through the Chelmsford Catholic Collaborative community.
What exactly is the process?
What are my Obligations?
There is no obligation on the part of anyone to “join the church.” There is no cost. You do not need to bring a sponsor. You only need the desire to learn more about the Catholic faith. What happens next is up to you!
Adult Confirmation
Adult Confirmation Registration
Adult Confirmation is for those persons who have reached their 18th birthday or are older, who are Baptized in the Catholic church and have already received First Holy Communion and, for whatever reason, have not yet received the Sacrament of Confirmation. Adults who have not yet been confirmed are urged to call the parish office to schedule an appointment. Interested parties must pre-register and provide a copy of your baptismal certificate.
This formation uses a blend of small group activities, formal presentations, and discussion groups. This journey begins in late fall and concludes with the reception of the Sacrament in the following spring.
For more information, email Heather Hannaway or phone her at (978) 256-2374, ext 226.