Before I was baptized/confirmed this past Easter, I accidentally showed up, thinking we had “dismissal” as we call it in class, to the Palm Sunday service. RCIA members were not required to show up to this service since it was an especially longer one. I was not aware of this and accidentally showed up. So, not to worry, you’re already a step ahead of me since you are actually planning this.
Of course, I also sat in the very first pew right in front of the priest, so I think the suggestion of sitting further back would be the biggest one. It will be easier to see what everyone else is doing.
I also sat in the middle of the pew, (in retrospect, probably not the best of ideas) and so when everyone was going up for the Eucharist, they were having to step over me and I found that to be a little embarrassing simply because I wasn’t quite there yet to be able to accept it as well. It was just a little awkward. So if you could find optimal seating for viewing and taking it all in, that would be excellent.
Also, be prepared to shake hands during the peace greeting. (not sure what to actually call this) This also threw me off at first.
Another thing was that someone grabbed my hand during the “Our Father” and this also threw me off.
So, though my first time sitting completely through the whole ceremony was kind of accidental, I think it helped me prepare and know what happened after typically, RCIA group gets dismissed.
GOOD LUCK!
