How do you party with the neophytes?
Do you have any recommendations for “some sort of celebration” at the end of the Easter season that the RCIA mentions in paragraph 249? Our parish has traditionally done a “commissioning,” a blessing prayer over the neophytes by the community at the end of mass on Pentecost. Does it need to be on Pentecost or is the following Sunday fine?
I don’t think there is a specific guideline for the celebration mentioned in paragraph 249. My sense is that the Rite means simply a party—a parish pot luck or reception after Mass, perhaps. I would think it could include a blessing prayer over the neophytes, but I would be reluctant to call it a “commissioning.” I would worry that might diminish their initiation as their “great commission.” If you are going to pray a blessing over the neophytes at Mass, it seems like Pentecost would be the ideal Sunday. If you are going to offer the blessing at the party, any Sunday near Pentecost, before or after, would be appropriate. The following paragraph in the RCIA notes that the neophytes from the previous year be brought together to give thanks to God on their anniversary. It might be a joyful moment for those who are ending their neophyte year be at the party also to be witnesses to those who are about to begin their neophyte year.
How about the rest of you? Any suggestions for or examples of implementing RCIA 249?
July 6th, 2008 by Nick
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This entry was posted on Sunday, July 6th, 2008 at 3:17 pm
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July 20th, 2008 at 9:15 pm
Our parish has only had a RCIA Team for the past 1 1/2 years; starting mid-year in 2006-07. This last class was absolutely exceptional in their participation and all aspects of becoming members of our parish community. We held a class potluck in place of our last class in April, inviting the neophytes, their families and their sponsors, as well as our parish priest and permanent deacons. We had very positive feedback about the social time spent with one another and will be hosting a similar event at the beginning of the program this September. Again, the group was exceptional and I am not sure if the group dynamics was the reason for the closeness, or if we as a team, were able to bring this group together - it was the most wonderful experience!
July 21st, 2008 at 5:55 am
Hi Phyliss. What was the catalyst that got your team started 1 1/2 years ago?