What is RCIA for children ?
RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults) for children is open to all children between the ages of 8-15, unbaptized or baptized. These classes are designed to educate children in the Catholic faith and prepare them for the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist at the Easter Vigil. Whether your family is just entering the Church, returning to the practice of the Catholic faith, or delayed your child’s sacramental preparation, all are welcome.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Class Schedule:
Classes meetings to be announced
What ages participate in RCIC?
RCIC is a program for children between the ages of 8 or above who have not been baptized or who are baptized in another Christian denomination. It is also for older children who are baptized in the Catholic faith but were never prepared for Reconciliation, Eucharist or Confirmation.
What is required of a child in RCIC?
The expectation is that the child and his or her parent(s) will attend Mass on a weekly basis. There must be a founded hope that the child will be raised Catholic.
The child is also expected to actively participate in the weekly Sunday RCIC classes. The parent(s) will meet with Director of Religious Education as needed.
On the day of the Easter Vigil there will be a practice at 9:00 a.m. with godparents/sponsors.
All children will need a godmother, godfather or sponsor who is an active member in the Catholic Church (either in Presentation Parish or another parish). The godparent(s) or sponsor must be at least 16 years of age, confirmed in the Catholic faith and be present at the Easter Vigil. A letter from the Catholic parish where the individual(s) are registered should be provided. If the family is unable to find a sponsor for the child, one will be provided by the parish.
Can more than one child from the same family be enrolled in RCIC?
Absolutely! In many cases when a family is joining the Church together, there is more than one child involved. It is highly encouraged to enroll all children at one time.
What is covered in RCIC classes?
The program provides a comprehensive review of the essentials and key teachings of the Catholic faith.
What materials will be used?
The RCIC I textbook is Bridges to Faith. It is published by Loyala Press, Inc.
When will the children receive the sacraments?
All students who are ready will receive the sacraments at the Easter Vigil the Saturday night before Easter Sunday. Those who have already been baptized either Catholic or in another Christian denomination (Candidates) enter the Catholic Church by making a profession of Faith and receiving the sacraments of Eucharist and Confirmation. The sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession/Penance) is celebrated after Easter.
Important Dates to remember - To be announced for 2021-2022
Rite of Acceptance and Welcome 10:30 am Holy Mass | Sponsors and Godparents attend also
Rite of Sending 10:30 am Holy Mass | Sponsors and Godparents attend also
Rite of Election 3:00 pm at the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament with Bishop Soto
How do I enroll my child?
Parents may register their children by contacting Sidney Curry Director of Religious Education at 916.482.8883. The cost of the program is $85.00 per student. If they have already been baptized, parents are asked to provide a copy of their child’s baptismal certificate.
For more information contact Sidney Curry, Director of Faith Formation at sid@presentationparish.org or by calling her at 916.482.8883.