Rite of Christian Initiation for Children & Youth

Similar to RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults), RCIA (Children & Youth) is a program for children between the ages of 7 and 14 who have not been baptized or who are baptized but have not received their 1st Holy Communion.  RCIA (Children & Youth) is open to both parishioners and non-parishioners who are in need of preparation for these Sacraments and for reception into the Roman Catholic Church at the Easter Vigil.  Whether your family is just entering the church, is returning after time away, have decided as a family to delay the children’s sacramental preparation, or any other circumstance, all are welcome.

RCIA (Children & Youth) is now entering the "Period of Purification and Enlightenment," a time of “intense spiritual preparation” for the children and their families” (see March 8, 2015, below)

  • This has a proximate preparation for the celebration of the Sacraments of Initiation, which coincides with LENT
  • The Scrutinies, the Creed, and the Lord’s Prayer are the primary means of formation for the children during the season
  • Time for introspection and repentance
  • Families are asked to pray the rosary together nightly

The "Celebration of the Sacraments of Initiation" is the final step in which youth receive the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist. 

  • Takes place at the Easter Vigil, together with adults 
  • Children celebrate the fullness of sacramental initiation; Confirmation and Eucharist are not to be delayed

"Post-baptismal Catechists Mystagogy" sessions continue through April, after reception of the Sacraments. (see April 12/19, 2015, below)

  • A time for the children to reflect upon the great mysteries celebrated during their journey to initiation
  • They come to deepen “their grasp of the paschal mystery”
  • Time of transition into the community of the faithful, and to be incorporated into the parish catechetical program with their peers

Weekly "Sessions" are conducted Sunday morning at 10:30 in the Jupe Room (in Family Center), unless otherwise identified on the Religious Education (RE) Calendar. In addition to RCIA (Children & Youth) sessions, students and families are required to attend Mass at least weekly, and on holy days of obligation, and other days so designated by the pastor in the RE Calendar. There is one Rite associated with RCIA (Children & Youth) remaining:  The Rite of Conversion & Scrutinies.  

For more information, contact:
The Church Office
(210) 654-1643
pa@sjnsa.org