Feb. 3, 2016

By Julie LaShomb
Diocesan RCIA committee

In the days before Advent, Catholics in the Diocese of Ogdensburg looked forward with anticipation to a new liturgical year.

Rite of Election set for Feb. 14 at St. Mary’s Cathedral

There are people in our parishes Who are anxious to be accepted into the Catholic Faith as full members. They have been discerning through various RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) programs about receiving fully the sacraments many cradle Catholics take for granted. Some were never baptized. They are called catechumens.

Others were baptized Christian but for one reason or another never went through the process of receiving the rest of the sacraments. They are called candidates. These people will be acknowledged during the Rite of Acceptance when they will be asked what they want from God's Church and what faith will offer them.

As members of our parish communities we are asked to support these candidates and catechumens by prayer and good example of Christian living.

Ask your pastor about the programs that are available in your parish. There are many ways you can share your talents in the RCIA program.