Catechumens vs. Candidates

[SuscipeMeDomine]

No, it’s not common, and that’s sad. In far too many parishes RCIA is the current name for what was once called “convert classes.” The name changed but the vision didn’t.

 

[Dlee]

I had the same thoughts, however, in hindsight, I appreciated the delay. Through questions and discussion, I gained a clearer understanding of teachings. More importantly, I developed a community of support with my catechists. They remain true friends and supports for me. They showed me how to live the day-to- day life that is pleasing to God. The time allowed my heart knowledge to catch up to my head knowledge. I loved RCIA and the experience so much that I joined the catechist team this year. Patience is an important lesson. Blessings!

 

[HeDa]

When we (converts) are received into the Catholic Church we make a profession of faith. “I believe and profess all that the holy Catholic Church believes, teaches, and proclaims to be revealed by God.” This takes time to learn and start living as every day life. Those who are received while on a “warm, fussy, nice feeling” are not likely to remain Catholic when the doubts, accusations etc come. And they will come. I was verbally attacked in my Catholic parish by a protestant during RCIA. We are representing the whole 2000 year existance of the Catholic Church when we are meeting secular society as well as other Christians. It takes time to stand with both feet on the ground and have a community around you that will support you when times get hard.

Those who are baptised need to know the faith as well.

The process is two years for both catechumens and candidates where I live and I find that practise good. One year to learn the faith and then one year to start living as a Catholic (without receiving sacraments) and going deeper into the faith.

 

[7_Sorrows]

I just wish it wasn’t necessary to go through such a process. I’ve been researching a lot on my own time, as well as attending mass for the past year. I feel as if it should be a decision between yourself and God, and that you shouldn’t necessarily have to go through rhe whole process. Especially if you already feel ready, and have that foundation.

What denomination are you coming from?
What is your religious background?
There is a lot more to Catholicism than being protestant. They want to make sure you are taught what it involves to be part of the Catholic community.

 

[1ke]

I feel as if it should be a decision between yourself and God, and that you shouldn’t necessarily have to go through rhe whole process. Especially if you already feel ready, and have that foundation

Ah but it is not only between you and God. You are joining a community.

 

[curious_cath]

I’d really appreciate any (name removed by moderator)ut, or any information!

In the neocatechumenal form of catechizing there are pre-catechumenal, catechumenal and post-catechumenal steps that lead to election. Each of them lasts between 2-4 years. It is based on RCIA, although modified. I can recommend for everyone with serious commitment.

 

[Lauren0615]

Yeah, all churches and denominations are communities in their own respects.

 

[Irishmom2]

Well, it doesn’t really work that way. The Church would have no way of knowing what everyone knows or doesn’t know. In order that all candidates learn official teaching, there has to be classes and so forth, opportunities for people to ask questions and learn from questions others may ask. There is a way that people enter the Church, and for the most part, it all occurs at Easter. As mentioned earlier by 1ke, what happens is that you are becoming a member of the community. If you honestly believed everything is just between you and God, there would be no reason to becomes a part of any community.

As far as you standing in front of the church, it happens, but mostly you are facing the altar and not the people in the pews if that makes you feel any better.

 

[Lauren0615]

I completely agree with you! This is just a learning process for me. I was told that since I have a strong Christian background, I will need only to be instructed on the Catholic faith. I have been living like a Catholic for almost a year now. I’m so excited for this journey, and i’m willing to make the most of it! However, I am relieved to know that I won’t have to wait for the Easter Vigil 2019, and can be accepted into the church on any given Sunday during mass! Oh, the excitement that brings me to know that when I’m truly ready (and the priest/instructor agrees) that no timeline will be holding me back!