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This is a huge pastoral problem. In my experience, very few parishes do RCIA correctly or effectively. https://twitter.com/YearoutWilliam/status/1303441968555528192
Perhaps the most pervasive issue: treating the initiation process as being primarily oriented toward intellectual education (often minimal at best), rather than a comprehensive process of conversion tailored to the individual's spiritual development
"The rite of initiation is suited to a spiritual journey of adults that varies according to the many forms of God's grace, the free cooperation of the individuals, the action of the Church, and the circumstances of time and place." - RCIA #5
in short, one size does not fit all
in short, one size does not fit all
If you're ever in charge of RCIA at your parish, ask yourself, for instance: are we forcing people's conversions into a pre-set timeline? Are we more focused on their spiritual lives or our curriculum? Do we have a plan to mentor these new Christians after their initiation?
"Priests, in addition to their usual ministry . . . have the responsibility of attending to the pastoral and personal care of the catechumens, especially those who seem hesitant and discouraged."
Brother priests: do we know when our catechumens are struggling? Do they trust us?
Brother priests: do we know when our catechumens are struggling? Do they trust us?
I firmly believe that the RCIA process could be one of the most beautiful experiences anyone could have of the Church's liturgy and community, but that means that those of us who serve in this ministry need to start treating it with the gravity and reverence it deserves.
I'll give a big disclaimer that this isn't directed at any specific parish or community I've been part of - I had a wonderful liturgy professor who really unpacked the RCIA process and helped me appreciate how much unrealized potential there still is for our parishes to implement
(Ok, I’ll stop ranting now. I just really want our converts to have a good first experience of the faith.)
