Cathedral of the Risen Christ Parish
CCD
The mission of the religious education program (CCD) at St. Joseph
Church is to assist parents of public school students in grades 1 - 8 in
the religious formation of their children. The Catholic Church has
always taught that parents are the primary educators of their children.
The religious education program provides systematic instruction to
students to supplement the teaching and example of their parents. The
goal of the program is to work cooperatively with parents to give their
children a good knowledge, understanding, and love of their faith, so
they are prepared to live a Christian life in today’s world.
RCIA
Definition:
RCIA is an ancient process, established by the Catholic Church, for
individuals to inquire, learn, and grow in the Catholic Faith. It is
intended to prepare these individuals for full communion in the Catholic
Church. The process can be divided into four steps. 1) An inquiry period
for potential catechumens to investigate the faith and ask questions; 2)
a catechetical (teaching) period during which elements of the faith are
presented and shared; 3) a purification period, coinciding with Lent, to
prepare for reception of the sacraments at the Easter Vigil; 4) and
finally a period after Easter to reflect on the mysteries that have been
received. The process involves more than attending a few classes. There
are several specific liturgical events and social times designed to
focus on the mystery of the Church and what it means to be Catholic.
Mission of the RCIA Team:
The mission of the RCIA team is to facilitate the process, as
established by the Catholic Church, so that those inquiring and learning
about their faith may experience Christ through His Church and in those that
serve Him. The goal is to provide a welcoming environment for all inquirers
to learn about the Catholic Church so that they develop the desire within
their heart to become a part of God's family through His Church.
Activities:
RCIA is the work of the entire parish. Many opportunities exist for
members of the parish to assist in the process. For instance, all of us come
in contact with individuals throughout the day who are asking religious or
philosophical questions about life. When these opportunities arise, we are
called by God to befriend these individuals, show them the love of Christ,
and eventually invite them to an RCIA inquiry session.'
If an inquirer decides to make a commitment to learn more about the
faith, then a Catholic sponsor will be needed. This is a key role for a
member of our parish. Catholic sponsors are critical to the process.
They serve as the representative of the Church with the specific duty to
become a close companion and shepherd for the candidate. They must
encourage, share, and assist as necessary along the journey. They
accompany the candidate to all of the teaching sessions, participate in
the liturgical celebrations, and offer prayers and sacrifices. In
addition, there are many other opportunities for assistance. The RCIA
team coordinates all of the events throughout the process: recruitment
of potential candidates, facilitation of inquiry sessions, teaching
sessions, liturgical events, special retreat days, and various outings.
The teaching sessions are each conducted like a small retreat. Each
session requires registration, setup, and catechetical instruction.
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