Rite of Acceptance. How to prepare?

[Canuck000]

I’m so excited! This coming Sunday, I’ll be going through the Rite of Acceptance. I’m not quite sure what to expect though. All we were told during RCIA class was to meet at the front of the Basilica and just follow. Does anyone having done this have any (name removed by moderator)ut? We were told that after the Homily we’d be excused to leave and meet in another area to “Break open the Word”, which I’m guessing is we’re going to discuss the Homily. Is there anything I need to prepare?
Thanks in advance. Maybe I should just contain my excitement and wait?

 

[marlap2]

If in your heart you are ready to go forth and explore the Catholic Faith as your home, you have nothing to prepare or fear.

Part of the Rite, I think, is entering into it with some fear and trepidation (in a good way). One never knows what God has in store for us day by day.

Trust me though, it’s not that scary, and is quite beautiful. I always prepare my class by telling them that this is the time that the local parish believers will meet you for the first time (or at least see you) and many of them will begin to pray for you in earnest. And it’s true.

Our Rite of Acceptance in our parish doesn’t happen until the week before the first week of Advent, because we just started a little while ago.

I will pray for you today that it is a beautiful experience for you. Welcome home!

 

[ElizMary]

How exciting! Often times the RCIA team feels it adds to the experience to not have pre-conceived notions as to the Rites. (They are quite specific for the entire RCC). Each step you are taking is special and, hopefully,will be very meaningful on your faith journey. However, the basic idea as explained in wikipedia.com is:

"First Step: Acceptance into the Order of Catechumens [Paragraphs 41 - 47]

The Inquirers who wish to continue now move onto the next stage, which is known as the Period of the Catechumenate. The Inquirers who are not already baptized are welcomed to this next stage via the Rite of Acceptance into the Order of Catechumens. As they enter this Rite they are known as Inquirers. As they leave this Rite they are now referred to as Catechumens.

Such rites may take place throughout the year, but most often take place during Advent and the month before it (October through December). …

This is a very significant step, so much so that for Catechumens (unbaptized): ”One who dies during the Catechumenate receives a Christian burial.”[47]
From the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults

This is the first rite that takes place at the beginning of the general Sunday Mass in front of the parish community."

So excited for you as you take this next step. All the rites are wonderfully spirit-filled!

Yes, Breaking Open the Word covers the gospel readings for that given Sunday. That’s a great opportunity to take a closer look at Christ’s teaching in a warm, friendly group setting.

 

[Canuck000]

Thanks so much. I’m eagerly anticipating it but I guess i’m having a little stage fright too. It’s often better for me to know what to expect ahead of time. You’ve been very helpful.

 

[InternetWoman]

Not to spoil the “surprise” but all the RCIA Rites are group experiences,. There are group responses to prayers. (I do, I am, etc.).

This Rite marks the transition from “I’ve heard of this Catholic thing and I want to know some more” to “Wow! I’m really interested!” If you can say that, you are ready!

 

[jhyer]

Going through RCIA as well but, not seeing the Rite of Acceptance on our calendar. Is this something that is always done?

 

[solayan]

I’m pretty sure it’s required for those becoming catechumens (not already baptised), but if I recall correctly the corresponding rite for those already baptised is optional.

You may not find it on your calendar simply because they haven’t set a date for it yet. In our RCIA program we’ve got a tentative date set for the Rite of Acceptance, but we want to make sure our Inquirers are ready before we set it in stone.

There’s also an option to hold the rite more than once during the year if there are some people in the group who are ready for it at different times.

 

[PJM]

=Canuck000;9823024]I’m so excited! This coming Sunday, I’ll be going through the Rite of Acceptance. I’m not quite sure what to expect though. All we were told during RCIA class was to meet at the front of the Basilica and just follow. Does anyone having done this have any (name removed by moderator)ut? We were told that after the Homily we’d be excused to leave and meet in another area to “Break open the Word”, which I’m guessing is we’re going to discuss the Homily. Is there anything I need to prepare?
Thanks in advance. Maybe I should just contain my excitement and wait?

AWESOME!

All you need to do is PRAY that God;s Divine Will be made known to you; and show up. Then be sure to offer prayers of THANKSGIVING!

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