Adult Initiation/Formation for Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation

The mission of the Adult Initiation Ministry is to catechize and spiritually guide adults seeking to receive any of the Sacraments of Initiation of the Catholic Church (Baptism, Eucharist and/or Confirmation).  We also welcome those baptized in other Christian traditions seeking reception into the Roman Catholic Church.

The Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) addresses the following:

1) Adults seeking all three sacraments of initiation-- Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation.

2) Baptized Catholics, seeking First Eucharist and/or Confirmation.

3) Christians baptized in other traditions, seeking full Communion with the Roman Catholic Church (the sacraments of Eucharist and Confirmation.)

The Adult Initiation Team is made up of members of the parish who are grounded in theology and in The Spirit.  Knowledge of the Catholic Church and the Sacraments are needed, as well as a grasp of St. Thomas Aquinas parish, its history and people. Warmth, good communication skills (especially listening), and a joyful and positive attitude are qualities that make good team members.

Members of the team oversee the various parts of the process and the tasks, according to their particular gifts and desires.  Some interview potential future Catholics, some oversee the pre-catechumenate (also called The Inquiry group), some present lectures to the catechumenate group on a topic of their expertise, and some meet with the catechumens on Sunday mornings when they are dismissed following the homily for Breaking Open of The Word and then meet as a group.

There is also a need for parish sponsors and support people for each new person, and also a need for volunteers for hospitality and administrative tasks.

Parishioners willing to be a sponsor commit to one year, but hopefully they will commit to a lifetime of walking the spiritual path with the new member.