The purpose of TeamRCIA.com is the full and complete implementation of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults in every parish in the United States.
Full implementation requires an ongoing process of catechesis that “includes more than instruction: it is an apprenticeship of the entire Christian life, it is a “complete Christian initiation,” which promotes an authentic following of Christ ” (General Directory for Catechesis, 67).
This apprenticeship model is a radical departure from the convert class model of a previous era. The complete initiation envisioned in the RCIA is an immersion experience in which the catechumens, with the help of the community of believers, are deeply converted to life in Christ. The catechumens are instructed in this new lifestyle by following the example of the Christian community, reflecting on their experience under the guidance of their catechists and sponsors, becoming familiar with the church’s expression of life in Christ in the languages of liturgy and church teaching (doctrine), and recommitting themselves more deeply to the way of faith.
While this model of instruction is new to many of us, it is based on the teaching principles of the early church. TeamRCIA.com is a place to discuss, reinforce, learn about, and promote the model of catechesis called for in the RCIA—a “suitable pastoral formation and guidance, aimed at training [the catechumens] in the Christian life” (RCIA, 75).
Comments that discuss and argue about the best way to implement a complete catechesis as envisioned by the RCIA are welcome, even if (especially if!) they disagree with the original post. However, to keep the focus of TeamRCIA.com clear, we will not post comments that advocate a return to the convert class model.
We ask for your continued prayers and support as we work together for the full implementation of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults in every parish.
From all of us at TeamRCIA