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Major Rites and Periods of the RCIA process

FIRST PERIOD

First Step:

Acceptance into the Order of Catechumens

The first liturgical rite in which enquirers express and the Church accepts their intention to respond to God’s call and follow the way of Jesus Christ.

 

 

 

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Period of Evangelisation &
Pre-Catechumenate

A time of enquiry and introduction to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. An opportunity for the beginnings of faith.

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SECOND PERIOD

Second Step:

Election or enrolment
of names

The liturgical rite during which the Church formally approves the catechumens readiness for the Sacraments of Initiation.

 

 

 

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Period of the Catechumenate

The period of time for growth in faith and conversion to God through prayer, catechesis* and fellowship.

*catechesis = the passing on of the faith

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THIRD PERIOD

Third Step:

Celebration of the Sacraments of Initiation

This is the most important of all transitional Rites because it is when the elect are fully incorporated into Christ and the Church by Baptism, Confirmation and the Holy Eucharist at the Easter Vigil.

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Period of Purification & Enlightenment

This period usually takes place during the liturgical season of Lent.

It is a time of more intense spiritual preparation for reception of the Sacraments of Initiation at Easter.

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FOURTH PERIOD

Mystagogy4

Mystagogy2

Period of Mystagogy &
Neophyte Year

Mystagogy or post-baptismal catechesis is an important period of time for the newly initiated to reflect on their Easter experience.

*neophyte = “newly planted,” the first year of being Catholic

 

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Images: The Catholic Weekly, Catholic Communication, Catechumenate Office and Giovanni Portelli