WHAT IS RCIC?

RCIC (Rite of Christian Initiation of Children) is the process through which older children are prepared to celebrate the sacraments of initiation - Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist and be welcomed into the Catholic Church.

It is also designed for those who were Baptised as babies but have not received their Confirmation and First Holy Communion.

It is the process of initiation the Church asks us to use and is modeled on the RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults).

WHO IS THE RCIC FOR?

The RCIC is primarily intended for children not Baptised as infants, who have attained the use of reason and are of catechetical age. The Church understands 'catechetical age' to begin at the age of reason, on or about age 7.

The RCIC is also for those children, Baptised as infants in the Catholic Church or another Christian community, who have not been catechised and desire to celebrate the sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist and be received into the Catholic Church.

Whether your family is just entering the church or is returning after time away, all are welcome.

WHAT DOES THE RCIC INVOLVE?

The children and families who choose to participate in the RCIC will form community together as they grow in relationship with Jesus and with the Church. Together, the children and families are introduced to the life of faith in the Church and the meaning of the celebration of the sacraments. The children and families will form a bond with their catechists (teachers) and members of the parish, including the priest and other members of the pastoral life of the local Church community.

WHEN DO CLASSES MEET AND WHAT IS COVERED?

Families meet in small groups for 7 to 8 consecutive Sundays during Lent to prepare the children who are then Baptised, Confirmed and receive Communion at the Easter Vigil. Our meetings will focus on the sacraments, faith, community, service, prayer, and basic beliefs and practices.

HOW DO I REGISTER MY CHILD?

The current RCIC Program concluded after Easter. Invitations to register for the next program will be extended towards the end of the calendar year.. Parents may express interest or enquire further by phoning the Parish Office on 9949 4455.

WHAT IS REQUIRED OF A CHILD IN RCIC?

Regular attendance at Mass and RCIC gatherings on the designated dates.

All children will need a sponsor /Godparent who is an active member in the Catholic Church who will be able to be present at the Easter Vigil.

If the family is unable to find a sponsor for the child, we will help find a good match from within the parish community.

WHAT IS REQUIRED OF A PARENT IN RCIC?

Parent/s accompany their child at all stages and meetings of the RCIC.

WHEN WILL CHILDREN RECEIVE THE SACRAMENTS?

Children who are ready will receive the sacraments at the Easter Vigil—the Saturday night before Easter Sunday.

*Those who have not yet been Baptised (catechumen) enter the Catholic Church by receiving the

sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist.

*Those who have already been Baptised either Catholic or in another religion (candidates) enter the

Catholic Church by making the Profession of Faith and receiving the sacraments of Confirmation and

Eucharist.

The Sacrament of Reconciliation is celebrated after Easter.

CAN MORE THAN ONE CHILD FROM THE SAME FAMILY BE ENROLLED IN RCIC?

Yes! In many cases when a family is joining the church together, there is more than one child involved!! It is highly encouraged to enroll all children at the same time.

For more information please ring the Parish Office on 9949 4455 or

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