Ever since Christ gave this command to the Apostles the church has taken seriously the task of initiating persons into the faith. Each era of Christianity has dealt with its own unique circumstances and understanding...all with the same goal...bringing into discipleship those who truly understand and commit themselves to live as Christ did.
In 1988 the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) from the Roman Ritual became the mandatory rite for the initiation of adults and children of catechetical age in the United States. The use of this rite is mandatory in all parishes of the Archdiocese of Detroit.
This rite speaks of a spiritual journey that "varies according to the many forms of God's grace, the free cooperation of the individuals, the action of the Church, and the circumstances of time and place" [RCIA #5]. The vision is that the whole process would take as long as necessary...even years...to complete. The process would be marked by rituals along the way to manifest the gradual growth the person was experiencing in his/her relationship with God. The process would call forth the gifts and effort of many members of the entire community so much so that the process would have an effect on the community as well as the individuals seeking initiation.
The Archdiocesan Committee for the Implementation of the RCIA is committed to helping parishes through education, formation, and resources to live up to the expectations of full implementation of the Rite.
Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age. Matthew 28: 19
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