RCIA: Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults
This program is for those who are:
-
Thinking of becoming Catholic
-
Would like to become Catholic
-
Have been baptized Catholic but have not yet received the Sacraments of Eucharist and/or Confirmation.
To fill out a RCIA registration form, click the button below. For RCIA questions, please contact us
Parish Office: 860-423-8439
catholicwindham@gmail.com / padremichaelcastiblanco@hotmail.com
This program is designed for adults who are interested in learning more about the Catholic faith and/or are thinking about becoming Catholic. We welcome new members year round. The meetings present an overview of Catholic beliefs and provide an opportunity to ask questions and explore your feelings and any concerns you might have.
​
The RCIA exerts no pressure on people in any way; you will find yourself in a friendly and welcoming enviornment where you can comfortably contemplate this important decision in your life.
Those who go through the process who have not yet been baptized (called catechumens) have the opportunity to join the Catholic Church during the Easter Vigil Mass, where they receive the Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist.
Those who wish to enter the Catholic Church and are already baptized in another denomination, may also complete their journey at Easter time. They too are formally welcomed into full membership in the Catholic Church and receive the sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist.
Rite of Election:
Usually, on the first Sunday of Lent, the parish and diocesan community affirm the catechumen’s readiness for Baptism in the ceremony at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Norwich called the Rite of Election. From this moment on those chosen to be initiated are called the elect. Their names and the names of their godparents are written in the Book of the Elect at the Cathedral. All catechumens and their godparents, family and friends are strongly encouraged to attend. This is a period of spiritual purification and enlightenment for the elect. The Vigil of Easter brings the journey of the elect to the fullness of Christian initiation. With Baptism, comes a rebirth in Jesus Christ. With confirmation, comes the seal of the Holy Spirit who is our helper and guide. The newly initiated are invited to remain with the faithful to share in the Lord’s Supper. Now for the first time they may approach the table of the Lord and receive the body and blood of Christ.