RCIA … Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults

The sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation are integral elements of the Catholic faith life. To educate an individual in these moments of encounter with the Lord and His faith community is to provide the basis for growth in a vibrant faith life leading to holiness.

Ideally, the journey begins in the fall semester through to the Easter Vigil celebration when the individual receives these sacraments of initiation. Meetings with the members of the Faith Formation staff, attendance at liturgies and other prayer opportunities provide an experience of practice. Communal and personal prayer forms supply both the formal and informal approach to conversation with God. The story of the life and ways of the Church are presented and discussed.

Confirmation

Each sacrament provides an opportunity to commit to ‘becoming’ more of what one believes. Confirmation is the specific sacrament of commitment. It is a formal embracing of all that the Church teaches and believes.

The members of the Faith Formation staff review the teachings and beliefs of the Church highlighting the current position on and understanding of current world issues,   e g., stem cell research and use, application of the Just War theory, life issues and abortion, immigrants, capital punishment and justice.

Sacrament of Matrimony

Marriage is a sacrament of vocation. Vows are pronounced to establish a covenant relationship and commitment between a man and a woman. This life time commitment is prepared for with the guidance of the Chaplain. A marriage readiness profile tool utilized to discover strengths and weaknesses in the relationship is explored by the engaged couple and Father. The couple participates in a marriage preparation program, Pre-Cana or Engaged Encounter. Discussions of marriage as a sacrament and a vocation are had. Pertinent required documents are requested and gathered. The ceremony is planned and the rehearsal done,  the preparation for the marriage is complete.  Please contact Hendricks Chapel to arrange for use of their facility.  Go to:  Hendricks Chapel

For inquiries on any of the above,  please contact Fr. Linus at 315-478-5959 or email at ldesanti@syr.edu