What is RCIA?
The Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults, or RCIA, is a communal process for formal initiation of new members into the Catholic Church. This process is a return to the formation of the earliest members of the Church in the first and second centuries.
All are Welcome!
RCIA is a Journey
List of Services
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Pre-CatechumenateList Item 1
This is the earliest phase in the process; it is also known as the Period of Inquiry. Catechumens and Candidates acknowledge that Christ is calling them into the Church through the movement of the Holy Spirit. This is a time for seeking and reflection.
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Rite of InitiationList Item 2
The first Rite in the RCIA process, the Rite of Initiation accepts new members into the worshipping community.
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CatechumenateList Item 3
The longest part of the process, the Catechumenate is a time of learning and formation in the traditions and doctrine of the Catholic Church. This is a time for sharing stories, reading scripture, and studying the Church customs, traditions and doctrine. Participants also participate in worship services and various Church rituals.
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Rite of ElectionList Item 4
Catechumens and Candidates are chosen to be received by the bishop and the community and to receive the Sacraments of Initiation at Easter.
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Sacraments of Initiation
At the Easter Vigil (Holy Saturday), all newly elected members of the community who have been journeying through the RCIA process are welcomed formally into the community of believers through receiving the Sacraments of Initiation – Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation.
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Mystagogy
This is a time of reflection and celebration after the formal reception into the Catholic Church. Mystagogia means “leading into the mystery” and it is a time to explore the deep mystery of our faith and go forth to help build the reign of God on Earth as new members of the faithful.
RCIA Team
St. Joseph Parish Programs
Ways to Help St. Joseph Parish While Doing your Regular & Holiday Shopping
Raise Right Gift Cards
Raise Right gift cards (formerly called Manna) can be used for your daily or holiday shopping needs. Cards can be purchased or ordered through the gift shop, the rectory or through their website. Visit https://shop.raiserightp.com/Login or use the link on the parish website. It’s that easy! You can order the gift cards yourself or by going through the rectory office. Simply pay for them through the rectory or through osvonlinegiving.com/4159. Cards will be delivered to the rectory. These are the same gift cards you would purchase in individual stores. A percentage of all gift cards sold is rebated to the parish. Save Gas! Save Time! And help the parish at the same time.
Food 4 Less Rewards Cards
St. Joseph Parish earns a rebate on all purchases made when you present your Food 4 Less Community Rewards card to the cashier when checking out. Cards can be found at all Church entrances.
St. Joseph Charitable Foundation
The St. Joseph Charitable Foundation was established to help parishioners in need of financial assistance to get them through a difficult time, whether they are in need due to a job loss, under-employment, health issues, or other matters. All registered, active parishioners of St. Joseph Parish are eligible for assistance.
Applications are located on the kiosk in the front entrance of Church, in the rectory or by clicking here. You may also speak directly to Fr. Tim about applying. The process is strictly confidential. Parishioners are eligible to receive up to a $500 grant within a twelve month period.
Tax deductible donations can be made to the Charitable Foundation at any time throughout the year. Please mail your donation to the rectory to Fr. TIm's attention. Thank you.
