What is RCIA?

RCIA is a program of discernment and instruction for an adult, seeking initiation into the Roman Catholic Church. Adults are introduced to the beliefs and practices of the Catholic faith with instruction
and introduction into the faith. RCIA is for persons who are

• baptized Catholic and have not received the sacraments of Confirmation and Holy Eucharist (Candidate)

• who are baptized in another Christian faith (Candidates)

• who are not-baptized (Catechumens).

Each candidate or catechumen is sponsored by a confirmed Catholic, in good standing with the church.  A sponsor is asked to walk with his/her Candidate/Catechumen through their journey and be available to help discern as he/she grows in the Catholic faith.

Sessions

RCIA sessions are for instruction and discernment of the faith.   Gatherings begin in early fall and conclude through the Easter season of the Catholic Church, the following year. 

2021-2022 sessions begin in the Fall of 2021.
Contact the church office at (512) 476-6182 x115, for more information.

Sponsors

A sponsor assists a candidate or catechumen in their discernment and learning process.  We ask that the sponsor build a relationship to assist with instruction and walk with the candidate or catechumen during their faith journey.

There are several important events throughout the year that a sponsor stand with their candidate or catechumen as they enter the Church church.  

• Rite of Welcome or Rite of Acceptance
• First Scrutiny
• Second Scrutiny
• Third Scrutiny
• Reconciliation
• Reception of Sacraments

Sponsor Qualifications:

• Must be in full communion and in good standing with the Catholic church;
  • be designated by the candidate or catechumen or by the pastor or minister and is to have the qualifications and intention of performing the role;
  • be sixteen years of age or older
  • be a practicing Catholic who has been confirmed and has received the sacrament of Holy Eucharist;
  • leads a life in harmony with faith and the role to be undertaken
  • may not be bound by any canonical penalty legitimately imposed or declared;
  • may not be the father or the mother of the one to be confirmed
    • A spouse may not serve as a sponsor for their spouse.

For more information, please contact the parish office
(512) 476-6182 x115
ysaldana@smcaustin.org