For Adults and unbaptized children over that age of 7.
Christian Initiation preparation program
Stage 1: Pre-catechumenate: (Where you are now) Seekers ask their questions about Christianity and the Catholic way of life. Informal self-guided journey of discernment.
Stage 2: Catechumenate:
Classes occur weekly September through Pentecost to guide and assist Catechumen and Candidates learning the Faith and Traditions of the Catholic Church. Includes:
This is a period of intense preparation in word, worship, community life and apostolic works. Sponsors chosen will act as spiritual companions, providing personal support, sharing experiences of Christian life and helping make the catechumen and candidates feel “at home” with Catholic religious practice
Liturgical – Rite of Election or Enrollment of Names: held first week of Lent with the Bishop. Ends the period of Catechumenate and begins the next period for the now called “Elect”
Stage 3: Purification and Enlightenment:
Period of intense personal reflection and deep conversions. Classes continue as well as celebration of “the Scrutinies”
During Regular Mass,, after the Gospel and Homily, the Elect and their Godparents come forward during each of the three weeks of the Scrutinies. The Celebrant addresses the whole assembly, asking us to pray for a spirit of repentance, an awareness of sin, and strength of will for the Elect. He prays for them as we pray for them.
Celebration of the Easter Initiation Sacraments – held at Easter Vigil mass. The Elect culminate the journey to initiation in Baptism – then along with the candidates the newly baptized be sealed with the oil of Confirmation and share at the table of our Lord in their First Holy Communion.
Stage 4: Postbaptismal Catechesis or Mystagogy:
Mystagogy means “leading into the mysteries” newly initiated should continue to meet to explore the Easter experience and look forward to the pilgrimage of a lifelong journey in full communion with Roman Catholic community of Christians. Look at participating in our mission as Christians and finding their place in ordinary daily life. After Pentecost, intermittent gatherings to support the newly initiated are recommended.