How do you party with the neophytes?

10 thoughts on “How do you party with the neophytes?”

  1. Phyliss Dixon

    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!

  2. We have been doing full RCIA at our parish for about 9 years now. For the past 8 years we have had a light stand-up reception immediately after the Easter Vigil (no matter how late it is). This reception is hosted by the previous year’s neophytes and their sponsors led by a team member. After the vigil everyone is tired and thirsty but the NEW neophytes are very excited and everyone wants to congratulate them. The reception offers everyone that opportunity. At the reception we serve only one kind of cold drink and cut up fruit. It usually lasts under an hour and everyone goes home tired and happy.

  3. We have been holding an RCIA PotLuck Kickoff. This allows the inquirers, their support people, family, the RCIA team, our Pastor and other members of the parish ( past RCIA participants) to come together for a fun evening of food, prayer and some activities.

    It allows us to get to know each other in a relaxed and fun setting. One activity we have enjoyed – I have made play-doh in many colours and we divide into groups that include a mix of those present. We give them a large amount of play-doh. They need to create “church”. The kids usually jump in and after a moment or two the adults begin to play and the concepts are great, better than the level of artisty! We share our ideas and creations.

    After Easter we host a bar-b-q. It is a great time to reconnect and the “RCIA alumni” ( as one neophyte called it) enjoy the time with other members of the parish.

  4. We have a Closing Mass and Picnic at someone’s home at the end of the Mystagogy series. It includes all who have been involved in RCIA in any way during the year, and if we have any new inquirers at that time, they are invited also. Our pastor says Mass for us in the informal setting of a parishioner’s back yard. The picnic is potluck. A good time is had by all.

  5. Brenda Sterling

    After the vigil mass, our parish hosts a reception for the neophytes and families and all parishioners attending the vigil mass. This gives time for the community to congratulate and share with the group. This reception is held regardless of the time of night.
    The first class meeting after the vigil, the team provides a potluck meal for the neophytes, sponsors, team, pastoral staff. The group meets, enjoys a meal with everyone. A team member then leads a reflection time covering Holy Week through Easter. Each person has a chance to share feelings, emotions, of the events as well as hearing those of everyone involved.

  6. Brenda Sterling

    The end of the mystagogy period is marked by a social time with neophytes, sponsors, team and pastoral staff. We present each neophyte a scrapbook of pictures of all of the rites and events of their journey. Thank you gifts are also given to the sponsors for their dedication.

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