Confirmation without RCIA?

[otter272]

I was wondering if anyone out there knows of a way to be confirmed as a Catholic without attending RCIA classes?

Here is the situation. I have been attending Catholic Mass off and on for over 20 years now but never been confirmed. In addition to going to Mass, I have done quite a bit of self-study on the faith of the Catholic Church.

In my opinion, I really think that going to the RCIA classes could end up being a waste of both my and the instructors time.

The biggest problem I am having however is that my work schedule is very, let’s just say weird, and attending RCIA classes would be a near impossibility.

I could just keep going to Mass without being a confirmed Catholic as I have been doing for a long time but I really feel like the Church is pulling me in and I want very much to be a part of it.

I have spoken to a couple of the local priests and they all seem to just want me to go to RCIA. While, I understand their intentions, I just feel like they do not understand my situation.

Any thoughts?

 

[twopekinguys]

I was wondering if anyone out there knows of a way to be confirmed as a Catholic without attending RCIA classes?

Here is the situation. I have been attending Catholic Mass off and on for over 20 years now but never been confirmed. In addition to going to Mass, I have done quite a bit of self-study on the faith of the Catholic Church.

In my opinion, I really think that going to the RCIA classes could end up being a waste of both my and the instructors time.

The biggest problem I am having however is that my work schedule is very, let’s just say weird, and attending RCIA classes would be a near impossibility.

I could just keep going to Mass without being a confirmed Catholic as I have been doing for a long time but I really feel like the Church is pulling me in and I want very much to be a part of it.

I have spoken to a couple of the local priests and they all seem to just want me to go to RCIA. While, I understand their intentions, I just feel like they do not understand my situation.

Any thoughts?

In order to give an accurate answer, I would be interested in knowing why more than one priest thinks you need to go through RCIA.

I will say this, a priest cannot just baptize and confirm someone in the church. The only one in a diocese with the power to confirm is the Bishop. Unless, by his authority he grants permission to a priest to do so.

 

[otter272]

I think I forgot to mention that I have already been baptized in a Protestant Church and from what I understand that baptism is valid.

To be honest, I don’t know why more than one priest has been pushing RCIA so much even though he knows that it is virtually impossible for me to attend the classes.

I kind of get the impression that they are trying to discourage me from becoming Catholic.

If that is the case, I suppose I can always just give up and go Episcopalian or Lutheran or something like that but I don’t really want to do that because I feel like I would be getting a watered-down version of the real thing.

 

[twopekinguys]

I think I forgot to mention that I have already been baptized in a Protestant Church and from what I understand that baptism is valid.

To be honest, I don’t know why more than one priest has been pushing RCIA so much even though he knows that it is virtually impossible for me to attend the classes.

I kind of get the impression that they are trying to discourage me from becoming Catholic.

If that is the case, I suppose I can always just give up and go Episcopalian or Lutheran or something like that but I don’t really want to do that because I feel like I would be getting a watered-down version of the real thing.

I’m sure they are not trying to discourage you from joining the church. It sounds like they are probably wanting you to learn as much as you can about the church before you make a final decision.

There can be several large theological differences between what you learned as a protestant, and what the Catholic church teaches, which could end up being big stumbling blocks for you.

I would suggest talking with the RCIA instructor, and explain your scheduling issues, and see if they can work with you. Our parish has several people that deal specifically with individuals who’s schedules don’t work out.

While I will say your “self study” is admirable, it is almost impossible to guage whether it is actually adequate catechesis.

I will tell you, I am the Lay Director of RCIA for our parish, and a few years ago, we had a gentleman that was in a very similar situation to yours. Protestant, did some self study, etc., but when it came down to the Real Presence in the Eucharist, he just couldn’t accept that, and he ultimately dropped out. This is where actual catechesis comes in handy. He thought he understood it, but when he actually learned about it, he couldn’t agree with it.

Also, remember, the Bishop has the final say in this. The priest could petition the Bishop to have you confirmed, but the Bishop could rightly decline if he feels you have not been properly instructed.

 

[otter272]

Perhaps they are. I just honestly don’t feel like there is much that RCIA could teach me about the Church.

Unfortunately, what you are saying is not making me feel much better about my situation. I appreciate the situation that you described but in this particular case, I understand about Real Presence. I understand everything about the Catholic theology that I have read. Talking with the RCIA instructor would be a good idea. The problem is, again, with my work schedule. The way things are going right now, I barely have time to make it to Mass but somehow I always seem to figure out a way.

I think what I will probably try next is going to yet another parish and talking to yet another priest and get yet another perspective on it. LoL!

Thank you for trying to help though.

 

[jmcrae]

Perhaps they are. I just honestly don’t feel like there is much that RCIA could teach me about the Church.

RCIA is not as much about book-learning (although that is certainly also an essential component) as it is about inculturation and spiritual development. Obedience is the first lesson, and (unfortunately for your case) one of the best ways to find out if someone isn’t ready to get Confirmed yet, is if they are insisting on “I’ll do it my way.”

Unfortunately, what you are saying is not making me feel much better about my situation. I appreciate the situation that you described but in this particular case, I understand about Real Presence. I understand everything about the Catholic theology that I have read.

I have actually never met anyone coming into RCIA who didn’t say that - everyone approaches the Church thinking they are ready “right now!” for the Sacraments. A few weeks into the actual process, though, they start to realize “Oh, I actually don’t know everything.”

Talking with the RCIA instructor would be a good idea. The problem is, again, with my work schedule. The way things are going right now, I barely have time to make it to Mass but somehow I always seem to figure out a way.

You will also probably find a way to make RCIA work, as well, then.

Maybe there is a parish that has their RCIA on Sundays after Mass, and you could fit both the RCIA classes and Mass in at the same time. At least do the Inquiry period, to see where you actually stand. Let them notice that you are ready for the Sacraments already, and let them ask the priest to ask the Bishop to Confirm you at his next available opportunity.

 

[otter272]

I just finished talking to another priest online and he steered me in a particular direction I can go.

Right now, Sunday RCIA classes wouldn’t work because I can’t even attend Sunday Mass right now. With my schedule I end up having to go during the week (which really irritates me to no end but that is a discussion topic for another thread). However, I understand where you are going with your comments and I appreciate them.

Perhaps I can find a parish that will work out closer to my weird schedule.

 

[jmcrae]

I just finished talking to another priest online and he steered me in a particular direction I can go.

Right now, Sunday RCIA classes wouldn’t work because I can’t even attend Sunday Mass right now.

What will you do when you become Catholic? Sunday Mass attendance is a Holy Obligation, for Catholics.

Perhaps I can find a parish that will work out closer to my weird schedule.

I hope so!

 

[otter272]

That is a good question. One which I think was asked on this very website a long time ago if I remember correctly.

From what I understood by reading that thread, going to Mass during the week fulfills the obligation. I know for sure that attending a Saturday Mass fulfills the obligation and from what I read on that thread it appears that going during the week also fulfills the obligation.

Am I understanding that incorrectly?

 

[Miss_Linda]

My introduction into the Church was somewhat similar to yours, in that I attended Mass daily for two years and did a great deal of self study and prayer prior to joining. I attended a small chapel (not a parish Church) that was run by a particular religious order. The pastor of that chapel requested and received permission from our Bishop to catechize me and another person and to baptize and confirm us at Easter. It just turned into a big mess because the priest began missing our scheduled catechesis sessions and then, I’m sorry to say, was removed from the chapel by his Order and sent to a treatment facility for substance abuse a few weeks before Easter and we were left not knowing what would happen to us. Because the priest missed so many of our catechesis sessions we really wound up having a very uneven catechesis. It was a traumatic entrance into the Church.

My RCIA sponsor leaped into action and mentioned our plight to the Prioress of a local convent, and the Prioress received permission from our Bishop to have us baptized and confirmed at the convent chapel which was a true blessing.

However, I have always regretted not going through the RCIA process with a class of fellow believers. The community element of the Catholic Church should not be underestimated, and the fellowship one has with others moving along the RCIA path is an important part of faith formation.

With all due respect, I’m not sure shopping around from Parish to Parish until you find a priest willing to do what you think is right is quite the proper approach. I think there must be legitimate reasons why they are encouraging you to go through RCIA prior to entering. I think the suggestion that you speak with an RCIA director and see if an instructor could be assigned to you is an excellent idea. This is just not a journey that is designed to be taken alone. That is why your sponsor is so important. Do you have a sponsor who is assisting you with your preparation?

I will pray earnestly that you can find an RCIA Instructor and a sponsor who can accommodate themselves to your schedule and assist you with this extremely important step of faith formation.

 

[Erin_Anne]

I just finished talking to another priest online and he steered me in a particular direction I can go.

Right now, Sunday RCIA classes wouldn’t work because I can’t even attend Sunday Mass right now. With my schedule I end up having to go during the week (which really irritates me to no end but that is a discussion topic for another thread). However, I understand where you are going with your comments and I appreciate them.

Perhaps I can find a parish that will work out closer to my weird schedule.

My husband was Confirmed without RCIA, but he did have to meet with a Spiritual Director once a week for 6 mos. The Priest determined he already knew everything they were going to go over in RCIA (he’s an avid reader), so he waived it. Maybe you can work out the same kind of thing?

You will have to meet your Sunday obligation once you’re Catholic, so that is something you have to consider.

 

[jmcrae]

That is a good question. One which I think was asked on this very website a long time ago if I remember correctly.

From what I understood by reading that thread, going to Mass during the week fulfills the obligation. I know for sure that attending a Saturday Mass fulfills the obligation and from what I read on that thread it appears that going during the week also fulfills the obligation.

Am I understanding that incorrectly?

Yes, you are understanding it incorrectly.

The Saturday Mass that takes place after 4:00 pm is an Anticipated Mass for Sunday, which is why it “counts” for the Sunday obligation - you will notice that it has the same readings and prayers as the Sunday Mass.

However, a Saturday Mass taking place before 4:00 pm is considered a weekday Mass (the readings and prayers are the readings for Saturday weekday; not those for Sunday), as are all Masses that take place from Monday to Friday.

These Masses do not count for Sunday.

 

[Erin_Anne]

From what I understood by reading that thread, going to Mass during the week fulfills the obligation. I know for sure that attending a Saturday Mass fulfills the obligation and from what I read on that thread it appears that going during the week also fulfills the obligation.

Am I understanding that incorrectly?

Saturday anticipated Mass, yes - weekday Mass, no.

One can go to Mass every day, or not; Sundays (Sat. nights) are an obligation.

 

[twopekinguys]

With all due respect, I’m not sure shopping around from Parish to Parish until you find a priest willing to do what you think is right is quite the proper approach. I think there must be legitimate reasons why they are encouraging you to go through RCIA prior to entering. I think the suggestion that you speak with an RCIA director and see if an instructor could be assigned to you is an excellent idea. This is just not a journey that is designed to be taken alone. That is why your sponsor is so important. Do you have a sponsor who is assisting you with your preparation?

Well said

 

[twopekinguys]

Yes, you are understanding it incorrectly.

The Saturday Mass that takes place after 4:00 pm is an Anticipated Mass for Sunday, which is why it “counts” for the Sunday obligation - you will notice that it has the same readings and prayers as the Sunday Mass.

However, a Saturday Mass taking place before 4:00 pm is considered a weekday Mass (the readings and prayers are the readings for Saturday weekday; not those for Sunday), as are all Masses that take place from Monday to Friday.

These Masses do not count for Sunday.

Well said.

To the OP. This is a prime example of why RCIA would be right for you. Simple misunderstandings of things can lead to big trouble.

 

[srlucado]

I was wondering if anyone out there knows of a way to be confirmed as a Catholic without attending RCIA classes?

I know how you feel, but it’s really not appropriate to “proficiency out” of RCIA.

There are things you’ll learn that you can’t learn any other way–for example, the way the Holy Spirit has touched others who wish to join the Catholic Church.

At our parish, we had a gentleman who’d attended Mass for 11 years before deciding to go through RCIA–which he did very diligently and patiently. He learned a lot, and we learned a lot from him.

My own case was different; I was baptized Catholic, raised Methodist, and practiced nothing for decades; when I decided to get confirmed, I took in the faith like being at the business end of a fire hose.

Still, I went through RCIA for months before being confirmed. I was impatient, but glad I attended those classes. I learned not only what the faith could for me, but what I could do for the faith. (And I’m still learning.)

 

[otter272]

I understand that RCIA is beneficial and I am not trying to downplay its importance at all. The whole thing about trying to get confirmed without attending RCIA is mostly due to scheduling issues and less about thinking I don’t need it.

 

[mommamaree]

I understand that RCIA is beneficial and I am not trying to downplay its importance at all. The whole thing about trying to get confirmed without attending RCIA is mostly due to scheduling issues and less about thinking I don’t need it.

Try speaking to the RCIA instructor and inquiring about if you can be matched up with a sponsor. You will need a sponsor, and you will find you come to quickly rely upon their steady presence as you proceed through the confirmation process. A priest does not simply confirm you when he thinks you are ready; instead there are a series of preparatory rites that are necessary for you to participate in as you approach the Easter vigil. I kind of chafed at having to be obedient to this, too, because I have two young children and I was (am) pregnant while going through RCIA this year, and was (am) experiencing severe nausea that overwhelmed me at times during the rites and classes. I share this only to make you aware that many of us have circumstances which needed to be accomodated or if necessary, as in the case of Sunday obligation, schedule changes which must be made.
Your priest will be able to help you understand what becoming a Catholic requires of you even better than threads here at CAF. The Catholic faith is unique compared to so many Protestant faiths, because it doesn’t just require intellectual assent. It requires trust, obedience, and actions. We may not understand why the Church does things a certain way, but we must trust the Church’s wisdom, be obedient, and act accordingly. No other church I ever attended prior to my conversion requires such things of me. In fact, this is one of the reasons I knew the Catholic Church was the true church, because faith should demand action and obedience, not just intellectual assent and theology speculation.
Develop a good relationship with your priest, and with your RCIA instructor (even if you cannot attend the scheduled class times; maybe have them over for dinner a few times?), and with your sponsor. Spend time submitting yourself to the process of catechesis; be willing to give up some autonomy in order to find out if the Church is really where you want to be. As a Catholic, we learn very quickly that we are not the authors of our own lives, we are not masters of our own destinies. Instead, we have very real authority to whom we must submit, for our own spiritual benefit and for the good of the whole Body of Christ. It is a very different way of being, and going through the established initiation process will help you to discern that and to prepare for that.
Good luck and God bless!

 

[woodland_poet]

I was wondering if anyone out there knows of a way to be confirmed as a Catholic without attending RCIA classes?

Here is the situation. I have been attending Catholic Mass off and on for over 20 years now but never been confirmed. In addition to going to Mass, I have done quite a bit of self-study on the faith of the Catholic Church.

In my opinion, I really think that going to the RCIA classes could end up being a waste of both my and the instructors time.

The biggest problem I am having however is that my work schedule is very, let’s just say weird, and attending RCIA classes would be a near impossibility.

I could just keep going to Mass without being a confirmed Catholic as I have been doing for a long time but I really feel like the Church is pulling me in and I want very much to be a part of it.

I have spoken to a couple of the local priests and they all seem to just want me to go to RCIA. While, I understand their intentions, I just feel like they do not understand my situation.

Any thoughts?

I was confirmed in 2006 at the age of 33. I had been baptized in the Catholic Church and received communion, and had attended mass quite regularly throughout my life and decided I wanted to be confirmed. I did not attend classes of any kind but did have a lengthy meeting with my priest, he talked with our Bishop and a few weeks later, I was confirmed. My self study, if you call it that, was extensive and has continued in the years since. My Catholic faith is my lifes field of learning. My reading list that I presented to my priest was quite extensive and very orthodox. I think that whether this can be done depends on the person.

 

[cctabb]

I understand that RCIA is beneficial and I am not trying to downplay its importance at all. The whole thing about trying to get confirmed without attending RCIA is mostly due to scheduling issues and less about thinking I don’t need it.

Speak with your RCIA director. He/She should do everything possible to accommodate your schedule. This can be as easy as once a month meetings with you and your sponsor to discuss your progress and email contact during the week.

If you have a home parish that you go to regularly instead of parish jumping, the priest will have a better idea of where you are in regard to catechesis.

My husband and I were in very similar situations. My husband was raised in the Methodist church but when he married me he went to Mass with me. After 10 years he finally decided that it was time to officially be Catholic. Because he had become so involved in the church during those 10 years our parish priest and RCIA director decided at the end of 4 months of RCIA instruction he was ready and he entered in full communion with the church in October.

My situation was different in that I am a cradle Catholic. The story is entirely too long to post here (I tried and deleted), but suffice it to say that I received every sacrament late (Baptism at 2, reconciliation at 9, first Eucharist at 20, marriage convalidation at 42, confirmation at 43). I never stepped foot in an RCIA class. But I had the experience to go along with the book knowledge.

So with all this I’m trying to point out that circumstances may seem to work against you, but full communion can happen without the actual classes if you priest knows you are ready. And as my Bishop told me last Easter, “It will happen in God’s time, not ours.”