RCIA is the process where individuals are invited to come and inquire if they wish to become Catholic. This faith journey leads a person to discern through the course of a year where God may be leading them. Questions regarding our faith and its practices are answered. The Scripture readings for the different Sundays are explored tying applications to our daily living. The RCIA sessions are held on Sunday mornings.

What does it mean to be a sponsor?

Sponsors Represent the Catholic Community
Although the responsibility to sponsor a perspective member belongs to the whole church, it is difficult for a large group to minister personally to each catechumen or candidate. That's why you are important. As a sponsor you are the personal representative of the church to the catechumen or candidate.

Sponsors are Companions
Being a sponsor means that you serve as a companion, and something as a guide. As a companion the sponsor must be available. Assure the catechumen or candidate of your willingness to help whenever there is need. Most of the time the help that you can offer will be support when there is hesitation, understanding when there is doubt, or comfort when there is inner conflict. Occasionally, the catechumen or candidate may need a gentle challenge from you when effort or enthusiasm wanes. A companion is called to be a friend whom a catechumen or candidate can trust, turn to and talk things over with.

Sponsors are Mentors
Catechumens and candidates learn what being a Catholic Christian is all about from many people, but mostly from their sponsors. The constant challenge for a sponsor is to be open to growth in faith and to putting into practice what faith requires.

Traits of an Effective Sponsor

• A Sponsor Prays
• A Sponsor Listens
• A Sponsor is Respectful
• A Sponsor Serves as a Bridge
• A Sponsor Respects the Candidate's Freedom
• A Sponsor Lives in the World of Hope

RCIA Team Member Roles

Hospitality
At our weekly classes this person's role is to make everyone feel welcome. Greeting people as they arrive for class. Prepare the coffee and treats for the break time during the morning.

Group Discussion Leader
Many times during the year we break into groups to discuss topics that were presented. As group discussion leader your role is to get everyone involved in the discussion. Through these discussions catechumens and candidates learn about our Catholic faith.

Breaking Open the Word Leader
After the Liturgy of the Word, the catechumens and candidates are dismissed for further reflection on the three readings. It is the role of the Breaking Open the Word leader to prepare and lead this discussion session. This is similar to Bible study discussions.

Sponsor Coordinator
This person with the help of the Holy Spirit finds a Catholic parishioner who will become a companion to the catechumen or candidate during the RCIA process.

Catechist
This person is a teacher of the faith. He/she shares in presenting the truths of our faith in the RCIA sessions.

RCIA Team Committent
We ask that a person commit to at least 3 years on the team, but not limited to that. Our RCIA sessions begin in late summer and run throughout the year. Currently we meet on Sunday morning after the 9:00 a.m. Mass.

RCIA Team Rewards
Through this sharing of your faith one deepens one's own faith and becomes a part of a small community within our large parish family.

Contact
If you interested in becoming a Catholic or knowing more about the Catholic faith, please contact Sr. Rita Ann Bregenhorn, O.S.U. (Ext. 14).