We have begun the process of introducing and implementing a year-round process for the RCIA. To see a PDF graphic of the process, click here (144KB). This file is in the PDF format for ease of printing and require the Adobe Reader to be viewed correctly. To download and install the Adobe reader to your computer, click here.
The graphic explains the spiritual journey of an ongoing catechumenal process, showing the movement from initial inquiry to full initiation.
The arrows approaching the outer ring indicate that inquirers can approach the community and enter the Period of Evangelization and Inquiry (precatechumenate) at any time of the year. Movement from the precatechumenate to the Period of Catechumenate is indicated by the arrows (representing the rite of Acceptance) that link those two rings. Note that in this example there are four months each year when the Rite of Acceptance is celebrated.
There may be more or less frequent celebrations, depending on the readiness of individual inquirers. Some inquirers may remain in the precatechumenate only a few months; others may continue to inquire for a year or more.
Movement from the Period of the Catechumenate to the Period of Purification and Enlightenment happens only on the First Sunday of Lent, at the Rite of Election, for those who have been in the catechumenate for a minimum of a full year and whose readiness has been discerned.
Full initiation of the elect is accomplished at the Easter Vigil. For the baptized candidate, movement from the Period of the Catechumenate to Reception into Full Communion may also happen at other times of the year, outside the Lent-Easer season, depending on individual readiness, and occasionally with less than a full year of catechumenal catechesis.
The arrows that move from the Mystagogy ring into the status of a “Member of the Faithful” are shown at every month to indicate this possibility, but they presume a full year of pastoral car/mystagogy regardless of when the Sacraments of Initiation are celebrated.