The Second Vatican Council reinstated what was referred to in the early Church as the “catechumenate,” a process of initiation for adults that culminates in baptism.

Initially this was called in English by the acronym RCIA, standing for the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults. It is composed of five distinct periods (evangelization, precatechumenate, catechumenate, purification and enlightenment, and mystagogy), marking the progress of an adult converting to the Catholic faith.

However, in November 2021, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops approved a new translation of the name of this process, now calling it OCIA, the “Order of Christian Initiation of Adults.  While it may seem like a small change, many see this as a new turning point.

The rites are still part of the order, but the new structure is meant to invite candidates and catechumens into a continuous process of spiritual formation as opposed to fixed checkpoints on the path to baptism, first Communion and confirmation.

Furthermore, by making the entire process an ‘order,’ the candidate or catechumen understands the rites received in church or at the parish are just one part of the ongoing journey of discipleship that will culminate with baptism and confirmation — usually during the Easter Vigil — but will continue throughout their lives.

The new name emphasizes that the process to become Catholic should not be rushed, and can be entered at any time.  While most converts enter the Church at the Easter Vigil, this new structure acknowledges that converts could be baptized or welcomed into the Church at any point in the year, even taking multiple years before making the final decision.

Becoming a Catholic involves a period of intense discernment, and prayer, not simply going through the “rites” at fixed points of the year.  Practically speaking, parishes will be adjusting to this new term over the next few years, phasing out the term RCIA and switching over to the use of the term OCIA.

If you feel the Lord is calling you to become part of the Catholic Faith, contact Fr. John (231-233-4429 or pv@sumtercatholic.org) for more information regarding the OCIA here at St. Vincent de Paul.

The most important question a Christian can ask is “What must we do to be saved?” St. Paul’s letter to the Galatians provides the answer and reveals the merciful love God the Father has for his children. This letter to the Galatians speaks of the extraordinary gift of salvation Jesus has won for us and explains how we can unite ourselves to Christ’s redeeming sacrifice through faith and love.

Presenter Jeff Cavins explains how Christ fulfilled the Law and set us free to live in the Spirit. Learn what “justification” means and how faith and works are an integral part of it. Discover how we become heirs to the promises and blessings of Christ through faith. For course specific questions, contact Bill and Ellen Lowderman at (404) 863-0769.

EVENT DETAILS

Date & Time: Tuesdays | Sept. 12 – Oct. 31 | 9:00 am – 10:30 am

Location: Family Life Center – Meeting Room 6

Registration Details: Registration required – opens Monday, August 14. Register online with Eventbrite at svdpffclass.eventbrite or by visiting sumtercatholic.org and clicking Parish News. Cost to register is $28. This covers the cost of the workbook “Galatians: Set Free to Live.” For workbook inquiries, contact the parish office at (352) 330-0220.

The Knights of Columbus Council 13300 will hold a fundraiser at Rose Plantation Restaurant (11AM-2PM & 4:30-8PM) on Tuesday, August 15. While it might seem a bit early, we are preparing for our Christmas toy drive and thus the featured charities are Kids Central Inc, and Shop with a Wildwood Cop programs. Both programs provide disadvantaged children with toys at Christmas.

It is best to make reservations (352) 805-4340. Come have a wonderful meal at this delightful restaurant and support our worthy charity.