RCIA Adapted for Children

Create in me a clean heart O’ God, and put a new and right spirit within me. (Psalm 51:12)

The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (R.C.I.A.) is the process by which those who have not yet been baptized and are above the age for infant baptism are prepared to receive the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist) and become Catholic.

The process also prepares those who were validly baptized in another Christian denomination to come into full communion with the Catholic Church, as well as those who were baptized Catholic and have not received the Sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist to complete their Christian Initiation.

At Holy Family, those between the age of seven and 18 years are prepared through the Children’s Catechumenate which is an 18 month program following the cycle of a regular school year (i.e. two 9-month periods).

Group I (first nine months) – Children explore the faith and understand some basic tenets.

Group II (second nine months)** – Children go through all the proper stages of the RCIA process replete with beautiful rituals and blessings as they journey to receive their sacraments.

**Children with appropriate attendance in Group I transition to Group II.

What do we need to do?

• Children will be registered and attend classes for Children’s Catechumenate program held during Family CCE Sundays. Parents attend the Parent Session with all the other adults during Family CCE.
• During their Group II time period, children will also be registered and attend an additional catechesis class once a month to gain a deeper understanding of the Sacraments they are going to receive. The parent will attend with the child.
• Attendance in both classes is closely monitored. A minimum 70% attendance is required. Special circumstances can be discussed with the coordinators.
• During Group II there are additional days of reflection, retreats, rites, rehearsals, etc. that require the student and parent and/or sponsor/Godparent participation.
• Parent must sign and return Sacrament Preparation Promise (Policy) form.
• A copy of the child’s government issued birth certificate must be submitted at time of registration.

How is this program setup?

• English & Spanish tracks available.
• Children’s Catechumenate sessions held two Sundays a month
• Sacramental Catechesis (Group II students only)
• English group meets one Wednesday a month from 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
• Spanish group meets one Sunday a month from 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Parental Attendance is Required

One of the most common questions we receive is “Why do the parents have to attend if the child is the one receiving the sacrament?”

“Parents have a right and duty to be intimately involved in preparing their child for the sacrament of Penance.” (National Catechetical Directory, (NCD) #126)

We are here to partner with you and support your efforts by providing a team of ministry servants who have met all the volunteer requirements in addition to taking time to work towards achieving catechist certification just so that they can have the privilege of sharing the catholic faith with your child.

Are you ready to register your child?

Contact the CCE Office at (281) 499-4612.

Questions or Comments?

Complete the form below and the English Elementary Coordinator, Edna Martinez, will respond.

Or you may reach Miss Martinez at (281) 499-4612 ext. 330.