The secret to recruiting RCIA team members

Sister Kate O’Neil, IHM, sent me an e-mail recently, telling me about her parish’s plan to begin catechizing the baptized candidates and the catechumens separately. As you know, in most parishes, that would take a whole bunch more person-power. Well, Sister Kate has what it takes. She told me she’s recruited seven new team members. Seven! I asked her to share her successful strategies with us. Here’s what she said:

After speaking to each person I sent them a letter, detailing some of my plans, and I invited them to an informational meeting. I believe I had made contact with twelve people, and seven of them attended the meeting. I asked them to pray and discern what God wished them to do. Gradually, each one responded “yes,” and told me how they thought they could contribute to the catechumentate process. Two of those seven will attend the Beginnings Plus institute in the Erie diocese in August! Two folks who could not commit themselves at this time, promised to consider involvement in the future.

I am blessed and pleased with how “easy” it was to recruit willing and anxious new members!

Full disclosure here. I was taught by the sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary when I was in grade school. They’re among the best, and I’m not surprised Sister Kate was so successful expanding her RCIA team. Great job!

How about the rest of you? How do you recruit team members? What tips do you have to share with the rest of us? Post a reply below, and let us know.

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See also these related articles:

• Expanding yourself for a continuous RCIA process
• The team you need for a year-round RCIA
• 5 characteristics of a key RCIA team member—the acolyte
• How do you train sponsors for the RCIA?
• 20 ideas for finding sponsors
• Who’s on your team?

Tags: recruiting