Learning Our Faith

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RCIA was developed by the American bishops. It is characterized by the following:

• There is a standardized curriculum that must be followed. The curriculum is based on the Sacred Scriptures, Documents of the Church and the New Catholic Catechism. 
• Every parish is required to provide a RCIA Program and if possible assemble a qualified RCIA Team.
• The RCIA program emphasizes the importance and place which the people of the Parish have in nurturing the formation of the Catechumens [non-baptized] & Candidates [previously baptized]. This often takes place at Sunday Mass, but especially during Holy Week/ the Triduum.
• Unless, there is a serious reason, the Catechumens are received into the Faith at the Easter Vigil. The Candidates can be received into the Church during any time of the year, but preferably during Lent, Holy Week or before Pentecost. 
• Presuming that the Program begins in mid-September and concludes on Easter, RCIA is a nine-month process. Catechumens & Candidates meet weekly for one hour.
• The above is a general characterization of RCIA. It is intended to give those unfamiliar with this wonderful program a sense of what it is about. There are a number of particulars, not mentioned here, which are included within the Program which address specific situations.   
• In 2023-2024, St. Lawrence RCIA Program will run on Tuesday evenings, 7-8 PM.  The first session will begin on September 12, 2023. The program concludes at the Easter Vigil on Saturday evening, March 31, 2024.One should not worry of what they know or don’t know; regardless of whether they have received formation in Christianity or another religious tradition. Everyone starts off at the same level. 
• The basic format of the evenings is one of lecture combined with discussion. There are no tests or expenses. Any needed materials will be supplied. 
• Unless it is a very small group, the RCIA group will meet in Ceader Hall {7-8 PM} beneath the church.
• September 12th will come up sooner than one thinks. Consequently, it is important that those contemplating becoming a Catholic pray about it and not hesitate to ask questions. There are no foolish or silly questions. We want the candidate to be as comfortable in making their decision as possible. They are encouraged to contact         Fr. Walter Benn at the Parish Office [610] 749-2684 / saintlawrence@verizon.net with any concerns which they might have. 
• Since there is a lot of material to cover, it is imperative that all Candidates & Catechumens start the process on September 12th.  One cannot start 2-3-4 weeks after the program begins. If a person desires to participate in the program but is wrestling with scheduling issues, they are encouraged to discuss this with Fr. Benn. All efforts will be made to help resolve their scheduling conflicts. 
• Finally, we encourage every person who is considering becoming a Catholic to ask for God’s help. Pray! Talk to him. Ask Him for the clarity that comes with His guidance and for the courage to make this decision. Keep in mind, that RCIA is a journey. There’s nothing wrong about asking for directions. If one reaches a point in the process and doesn’t feel it is for them, they can always step out of the program. 

      Fr. Walter J. Benn