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RIte of Children Initiation of Children

What is RCIC ?

Similar to RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults), RCIC, or the RIte of Children Initiation of Children, is a program for children between the ages of 7 and 14 who have not been baptized or who are baptized but have not received their First Eucharist.

RCIC is open to parishioners who have children in need of preparation for these Sacraments and for reception into the Roman Catholic Church at the Easter Vigil. Whether your family is just entering the church, is returning after time away, have decided as a family to delay the children's sacramental preparation, or any other circumstances, all are welcome.

Class Schedule

Classes meet on Sunday mornings from 10:10 to 11:20 AM in St. Luke School. We focus on the sacraments, faith, community, service, prayer, and basic beliefs and practices during class meeting.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What Ages participate in RCIC?
RCIC is a program for children between the ages of 7 and 14 who have not been baptized or who are baptized but have not received their First Eucharist. While this may seem a wide range to have in one class, accommodations are will be made depending on the make-up of the class. For example, with large classes general instruction will be given to the entire class, then children will be broken up into 2-4 small groups with group activities tailored to their age group and sacraments.

What is covered in RCIC classes?
Classes focus on the sacraments, faith, community, service, prayer, and basic beliefs and practices during class meeting.

What materials are used?
Our main resources are two manuals that have been approved by the Archdiocese. We will use the books Our Catholic Faith and One Faith, both published by Sadlier. We will also us "The Journey of Faith" from Twenty-Third Publications."

When will children receive the sacraments?
All students who are ready will receive the sacraments at the Easter Vigil the Saturday night before Easter Sunday. Those who have already been baptized either Catholic or in another religion (Candidates) enter the Catholic Church by making a profession of Faith and receiving the sacraments of Eucharist
and Confirmation. The sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession/Penance) is celebrated after Easter.

How do I enroll my child?
Parents may register new students by phoning the Faith Formation Office at
259-4373 Ext. 256. There is no fee but a donation toward the purchase of books is welcome.. All new students are asked to supply a copy of their baptismal certificates if they have already been baptized.

What is required of a child in RCIC?
Regular attendance at Mass and Sunday classes with active participation in class discussions and activities. There will also be a retreat prior to the Easter Vigil that the children and their sponsors are to attend. On the day of the Vigil there will be a practice, time TBA.

All children will need a sponsor who is an active member in the Catholic Church (either in St. Luke's parish or another parish), at least 16 years of age, has been confirmed and who will be able to be present at the Easter Vigil. The sponsor is not to be a member of the immediate family. If the family is unable to find a sponsor for the child, we will help find a good match in the parish.

Can more than one child from the same family be enrolled in RCIC?
Yes, of course, in many cases when a family is joining the church together, there is more than one child involved! It is highly encouraged to enroll all children at one time.

For more information contact Diane Schafer, Director of Religious Education at dschafer@stluke.org or by calling her at 259-4373 ext. 256.