Are there any instructions on how the RCIA program should run?

[glenaitken]

I was wondering if anyone out there knows of any documents regarding RCIA that explain what ought to be in the curriculum. evey document that I’ve read from the Church simply says to have an RCIA program or gives the Rites of Scrutiny, etc. I am working with the RCIA team and we have been bringing it more structure by using the new “United States Catechism for Adults” coupled with a question and answer study guide, and that seems to be working. I would just like to make sure that we are including all of the topics that the Magesterium wants (hence the Catechism seemed like a good idea). Are there any instructions other than “Have a program and do these Rites”? Please advise.

 

[THurifer2]

I would use the CCC as a format for the entire program.

 

[glenaitken]

thanks, i figure we can’t go wrong using the catechism, i just want to make sure that we’re in keeping with the magisterium’s expectations of the program

 

[japhy]

I would strongly advise (in agreement with THurifier2) that the style of the Catechism (and catechisms of old) be the model or frame for RCIA. Use the Apostle’s Creed as your “outline”, and teach the faith from that. Don’t leave things out that aren’t explicitly mentioned in the creed (such as the Eucharist, the Marian doctrines, and the papacy) but determine where best to introduce them.

 

[glenaitken]

thanks! don’t worry, we don’t shy away from any matters of faith or morals. thanks for the help!

 

[Br.Rich_SFO]

I was wondering if anyone out there knows of any documents regarding RCIA that explain what ought to be in the curriculum. evey document that I’ve read from the Church simply says to have an RCIA program or gives the Rites of Scrutiny, etc. I am working with the RCIA team and we have been bringing it more structure by using the new “United States Catechism for Adults” coupled with a question and answer study guide, and that seems to be working. I would just like to make sure that we are including all of the topics that the Magesterium wants (hence the Catechism seemed like a good idea). Are there any instructions other than “Have a program and do these Rites”? Please advise.

The question is not unlike asking if there are a book of instructions on how to build a bridge across the Mississippi river? The RCIA should be directed by someone who is educated in the liturgical Rites of the Catholic Church, specifically the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults. Who understands Catechetics, Evangelization, and Ecumenism, specifically Adult Catechesis. It really takes a good understanding of a small collection of Church documents to properly implement the RCIA.

 

[Br.Rich_SFO]

The question is not unlike asking if there are a book of instructions on how to build a bridge across the Mississippi river? The RCIA should be directed by someone who is educated in the liturgical Rites of the Catholic Church, specifically the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults. Who understands Catechetics, Evangelization, and Ecumenism, specifically Adult Catechesis. It really takes a good understanding of a small collection of Church documents to properly implement the RCIA.

I ran out of edit time:

The Catechism (CCC) should always be the basis and reference for all of the Catechetical sessions. I would not suggest actually following the table of contents of the Catechism as your outline. Having the Adult Catechism for the U.S. available to everyone is a good idea. My table of topics is on here somewhere in an old thread. You might want to look at that.

You will find it here:
forums.catholic-questions.org/showthread.php?p=31313#poststop

 

[LSK]

At St. Joseph’s in Modesto we use the ACM Manual, along with the CCC, the Compendium and Holy Scripture. The ACM is a wonderful program developed at Franciscan University in Steubenville. Not only is it faithful to the Magisterium, it helps the Catechist develop their lesson plans in such a way as to build, solidly, begining with Inquiry and going all the way through to the Catechumate. It also helps us with those Catholics who are completing their initiation rites, i.e. they were Baptized and receiving the Eucharist, but never Confirmed.

Every year our team goes back to Steubenville for the Bosco Conference. We are all on what is known as the RCIA Track. At the end of a five-year period we will all have been schooled in such a way as to truly be able to echo-back the faith to those who search for Truth.

We are given the opportunity to study with people like Barbara Morgan and Petroc Willey. It is an amazing conference. Last year I felt as though my brain was put on a 20 mile run every day!

Prayer is the foundation for our RCIA process. We, the Catechists, find that because we are challenged to think, reason and constantly learn the enthusiasm we have for being Catholic translates into wonderful classes. And apparently it is that enthusiasm which most captivates our Candidates and Catechumates, because the ‘what did you like most about the classes’ discernments held by our DRE are always filled with people raving about how much WE love being Catholic and how that ‘infected’ them.

So, give it a look-see. I think you will be pleasantly surprised.

 

[puzzleannie]

I was wondering if anyone out there knows of any documents regarding RCIA that explain what ought to be in the curriculum. .

do you want me to answer your title or your post?
how the “program” is run is one question.
the catechesis for RCIA is another question
RCIA is not a program it is a process
the specific periods in the conversion process, punctuated by certain rites are one part
catechesis is another part
discernment of conversion is a third part
the actual sacraments of initiation is a part
mystagogia is a part.

yes the Ritual Book prescribes all of this, your first step is to immerse yourself in this book.

If you are responsible only for the catechesis, do that.
If you are responsible for preparing people for the Rites, and discerning when they are ready for the rites, you must be familiar with them as described in the ritual book

 

[Chris-WA]

I was wondering if anyone out there knows of any documents regarding RCIA that explain what ought to be in the curriculum. evey document that I’ve read from the Church simply says to have an RCIA program or gives the Rites of Scrutiny, etc. I am working with the RCIA team and we have been bringing it more structure by using the new “United States Catechism for Adults” coupled with a question and answer study guide, and that seems to be working. I would just like to make sure that we are including all of the topics that the Magesterium wants (hence the Catechism seemed like a good idea). Are there any instructions other than “Have a program and do these Rites”? Please advise.

I can definitely empathize with your question because in my experience I think there is far too much leeway given to parishes when it comes to RCIA programs, especially when it comes to catechesis. I’m not aware of any one official document that delineates the minimum items that need to be taught, and I think this is a tragedy because the lack of such clear directives leave RCIA catechesis up to the individual whims of local parish leaders. The result is that the quality of RCIA from parish to parish varies so greatly that you really need to ask around to find out where the good ones are. It shouldn’t be that way, but unfortunately the Church has not yet taken much care to ensure that RCIA programs are consistent across the Church. That’s sad because all people investigating the Catholic Church should have the opportunity to be taught the basics, but in many parishes this just doesn’t happen very well. As a former RCIA sponsor I was once phoned at home by the RCIA director to stop bringing my Catechism to the classes. How messed up is that? Just the fact that you’re asking such questions indicates that you’re already ahead of the curve. I really believe that Rome needs to publish a world-wide syllabus not only for RCIA, but for all RE programs as well. Good luck with your program, and don’t let the liberal, hippy Catholics that plague our Church talk you into any nonsense. There is far too much of that already.

 

[Br.Rich_SFO]

I can definitely empathize with your question because in my experience I think there is far too much leeway given to parishes when it comes to RCIA programs, especially when it comes to catechesis. I’m not aware of any one official document that delineates the minimum items that need to be taught, and I think this is a tragedy because the lack of such clear directives leave RCIA catechesis up to the individual whims of local parish leaders. The result is that the quality of RCIA from parish to parish varies so greatly that you really need to ask around to find out where the good ones are. It shouldn’t be that way, but unfortunately the Church has not yet taken much care to ensure that RCIA programs are consistent across the Church. That’s sad because all people investigating the Catholic Church should have the opportunity to be taught the basics, but in many parishes this just doesn’t happen very well. As a former RCIA sponsor I was once phoned at home by the RCIA director to stop bringing my Catechism to the classes. How messed up is that? Just the fact that you’re asking such questions indicates that you’re already ahead of the curve. I really believe that Rome needs to publish a world-wide syllabus not only for RCIA, but for all RE programs as well. Good luck with your program, and don’t let the liberal, hippy Catholics that plague our Church talk you into any nonsense. There is far too much of that already.

There are two documents that should be understood in regards to catechesis for RCIA one is the General Directory for Catechesis, the other, the National Directory for Catechesis.

 

[japhy]

There are two documents that should be understood in regards to catechesis for RCIA one is the General Directory for Catechesis, the other, the National Directory for Catechesis.

I have both of those in my personal library… haven’t gotten around to reading them yet, but I bought them because I know they’re of great importance to understanding how to catechize.

 

[Br.Rich_SFO]

I have both of those in my personal library… haven’t gotten around to reading them yet, but I bought them because I know they’re of great importance to understanding how to catechize.

Pay attention to 88ff in the GDC and 35ff (114-122) in the NDC.

 

[palmas85]

I was wondering if anyone out there knows of any documents regarding RCIA that explain what ought to be in the curriculum. evey document that I’ve read from the Church simply says to have an RCIA program or gives the Rites of Scrutiny, etc. I am working with the RCIA team and we have been bringing it more structure by using the new “United States Catechism for Adults” coupled with a question and answer study guide, and that seems to be working. I would just like to make sure that we are including all of the topics that the Magesterium wants (hence the Catechism seemed like a good idea). Are there any instructions other than “Have a program and do these Rites”? Please advise.

Generally each Diocese has certain minimum criteria that they want covered in the program. How it is presented over what period of time and in what fashion is pretty much left up to the individual parish in most cases. They should have a list or a syllabus of some sort available.

Some programs are more orthodox and others pretty loose. Some require that all those instructing be certified catechists. Others don’t. Some want a highly structured approach and others want something that has no structure at all. It all depends.

I got involved with RCIA and got myself certified when I learned of some of the things being taught in the RCIA program at my parish in San Diego. To put it bluntly, I was horrified. Actually, more than horrified if you can imagine that.

 

[Alexius]

I was wondering if anyone out there knows of any documents regarding RCIA that explain what ought to be in the curriculum. evey document that I’ve read from the Church simply says to have an RCIA program or gives the Rites of Scrutiny, etc. I am working with the RCIA team and we have been bringing it more structure by using the new “United States Catechism for Adults” coupled with a question and answer study guide, and that seems to be working. I would just like to make sure that we are including all of the topics that the Magesterium wants (hence the Catechism seemed like a good idea). Are there any instructions other than “Have a program and do these Rites”? Please advise.

Ideally, it should be what the Church teaches…

Many seem to throw in their own opinions and denials from time to time…

This is a major responsibility. May Almighty GOD bless you for undertaking it!

Prayers and petitions,
Alexius

 

[Texas_Roofer]

I can definitely empathize with your question because in my experience I think there is far too much leeway given to parishes when it comes to RCIA programs, especially when it comes to catechesis. I’m not aware of any one official document that delineates the minimum items that need to be taught, and I think this is a tragedy because the lack of such clear directives leave RCIA catechesis up to the individual whims of local parish leaders. The result is that the quality of RCIA from parish to parish varies so greatly that you really need to ask around to find out where the good ones are. It shouldn’t be that way, but unfortunately the Church has not yet taken much care to ensure that RCIA programs are consistent across the Church. That’s sad because all people investigating the Catholic Church should have the opportunity to be taught the basics, but in many parishes this just doesn’t happen very well. As a former RCIA sponsor I was once phoned at home by the RCIA director to stop bringing my Catechism to the classes. How messed up is that? Just the fact that you’re asking such questions indicates that you’re already ahead of the curve. I really believe that Rome needs to publish a world-wide syllabus not only for RCIA, but for all RE programs as well. Good luck with your program, and don’t let the liberal, hippy Catholics that plague our Church talk you into any nonsense. There is far too much of that already.

Well said
Depending on the actual group I would quickly change the plan; some need elementary teaching(Trinity, New vs Old Testament, New Covenant) others need proper direction of actual catholic teachings(birth control, marriage, abortion). However these are very different and to do both at once is tough, possible but tough

Generally each Diocese has certain minimum criteria that they want covered in the program. How it is presented over what period of time and in what fashion is pretty much left up to the individual parish in most cases. They should have a list or a syllabus of some sort available.

Some programs are more orthodox and others pretty loose. Some require that all those instructing be certified catechists. Others don’t. Some want a highly structured approach and others want something that has no structure at all. It all depends.

I got involved with RCIA and got myself certified when I learned of some of the things being taught in the RCIA program at my parish in San Diego. To put it bluntly, I was horrified. Actually, more than horrified if you can imagine that.

Ditto
We often make Protestants, why? I have no idea.

 

[glenaitken]

do you want me to answer your title or your post?
how the “program” is run is one question.
the catechesis for RCIA is another question
RCIA is not a program it is a process
the specific periods in the conversion process, punctuated by certain rites are one part
catechesis is another part
discernment of conversion is a third part
the actual sacraments of initiation is a part
mystagogia is a part.

yes the Ritual Book prescribes all of this, your first step is to immerse yourself in this book.

If you are responsible only for the catechesis, do that.
If you are responsible for preparing people for the Rites, and discerning when they are ready for the rites, you must be familiar with them as described in the ritual book

Thanks everyone. I used to be a teacher and so I was used to having more concrete “standards” to follow. I guess I was looking for that to incorporate into the program. It seems that the rites and the catechesis all seem to be a little disjointed. I think I’ll have to incorporate more understandings of the rites in the program, but i don’t think that the catechesis should focus on the rites. the whole RCIA program (in general) from the documents that I’ve read seems to be very disjointed and I feel like the bishops knew we needed one, came up with an idea on peper, and left it to the parishes to implement it. For a comprehensive program, it almost feels like an experiment. Are the bishops re-assesing the program anytime soon? I would like to see a sruvey of the various ways that the program has been done and the strengh=ths and weaknesses of different methodologies.

 

[Joannm]

Thanks everyone. I used to be a teacher and so I was used to having more concrete “standards” to follow. I guess I was looking for that to incorporate into the program. It seems that the rites and the catechesis all seem to be a little disjointed. I think I’ll have to incorporate more understandings of the rites in the program, but i don’t think that the catechesis should focus on the rites. the whole RCIA program (in general) from the documents that I’ve read seems to be very disjointed and I feel like the bishops knew we needed one, came up with an idea on peper, and left it to the parishes to implement it. For a comprehensive program, it almost feels like an experiment. Are the bishops re-assesing the program anytime soon? I would like to see a sruvey of the various ways that the program has been done and the strengh=ths and weaknesses of different methodologies.

RCIA is a PROCESS not a PROGRAM and therein lies the problem. When we think in term of PROGRAM we think of a syllabus, outlines, a beginning and an end. RCIA is not like that. Yes there are certain things that must and should be taught, but it is more of a conversion experience that leads new Catholics into life long learning. Each catechumen and candidtate is different. Each is at a different path along the road and the RCIA team needs to be flexible. Sticking to a specific program does not always work. For example last year we had a Muslim woman who had no clue about anything of the faith, and a baptized Christian who had more knowledge than most of the Catholics in the pews. We had to adjust things to take both these women into account. Our process was much different than it was when we had a group of people who were basically at the same stage. I like to work around the liturgical year, so today we will be talking about baptism and its connection to the ministry of Jesus and how we as Catholic CHristians are called to share in His ministry. Of courese there are things that we have to get in, and I usually follow the Creed for that. We use the Compendium. I find it is less daunting than the full CCC. We have that available for them however. I have not used the Adult Catechism because it is too expensive to have each get one. Hopefully I can find someone to donate some money to buy some.