Discernment: What does the Rite say?

It might seem daunting to discern a person’s readiness for the next step in the RCIA process. But the Rite, itself, gives us some clear guidelines on who does the discerning and what they’re looking for in the daily actions and demeanor of a person seeking to deepen their relationship with God.

Note that the Rite never mentions the number of sessions or liturgies attended, dogmas understood, or service hours completed. That’s because what the Rite is asking us to look for in discernment of readiness is conversion of heart to Christ.

As you read through these parts of the Rite, remember to make this discernment process one of prayer, mystagogy, action, and thanksgiving. Entrust your discernment to the Holy Spirit, look for how God has been acting in the person’s life, discern ways to help the person deepen their relationship with Christ, and give thanks for the Father’s abiding love in the life of this person and in the community.

Discerning a person’s readiness for the Rite of Acceptance

What to look for in the person (RCIA, 42):

• “the beginnings of the spiritual life”
• “the fundamentals of Christian teaching have taken root”
• “evidence of first faith”
• “evidence of an initial conversion”
• “intention to change their lives”
• “evidence of the first stirrings of repentance”
• “the practice of calling upon God in prayer”
• “a sense of the Church”
• “some experience of the company and spirit of Christians through contact”

Who discerns (RCIA, 43):

• sponsors
• catechists
• deacons
• parish priests
• pastors

Discerning readiness of a person for the Rite of Election

What to look for in the person (RCIA, 120):

• “a conversion in mind and in action”
• “a sufficient acquaintance with Christian teaching”
• “a spirit of faith and charity”
• “the intention to receive the sacraments of the Church”
• “a resolve [to express their intention] publicly in the actual celebration of the rite [of Election]“

Who discerns (RCIA, 121, 122):

• bishop
• priests
• deacons
• catechists
• godparents
• the entire community
• the catechumens themselves