Oct. 29, 2014

Massena - The Catechumenate Committee of the Diocese of Ogdensburg met Sept. 22 and discussed the state of Rite of Catholic Initiation of Adults (RCIA) programs in the diocese.

The committee members are Deacon Patrick Donahue, director of the western regional office of the Department of Faith Formation; Pam Ballantine, director of the eastern regional office; Father Daniel Chapin, pastor of St. Stephen’s Parish in Croghan; Star Burke, St Peter’s, Plattsburgh; and Julie Lashomb,  Sacred Heart, Massena.

Deacon Donahue noted that the committee was concerned about the inconsistency among parishes in establishing an RCIA program. Some parishes have no program while some are very active.

“We want to remind parishioners that RCIA that is not just for ‘catechumens,’ people who want to join the Catholic Church but it’s also for ‘candidates,’ those who were baptized but never went through the process of receiving the other sacraments of initiation, the Eucharist and confirmation,” Deacon Donahue said.

“Many parishes are now actively in the beginning process of inquiry, he said. “We asked that Catholics keep these people in your prayers while they are discerning to join our faith.

“There are many areas in the process where parishioners can be helpful,” he said. “Ask your pastor what you can do.”