BY NADIA POZO
CS&T Staff Writer
For Maria Castro, making an extra effort for her daughter’s religious education is paramount.
Castro migrated to the United States 12 years ago, with her husband and son, from El Salvador. Because her daughter, Diana, was born in the U.S. when Castro was still relatively new to the country, she did not have Diana baptized and confirmed as an infant — as is typically done in her country.
With her son fully initiated, and Diana reaching the age at which she could receive her first holy Communion, Castro decided it was time for Diana to be fully initiated as well.
Castro enrolled her daughter in the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults at St. John Bosco in Hatboro, where Sister, Servant of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Sister Barbara Jude Gentry guides many through the R.C.I.A. journey. [For more information about the R.C.I.A. process, see story on page 11.]
Now in her third year of preparation, 11-year-old Diana Castro says she isn’t bothered one bit that her parents waited.
“It’s really exciting, because normally you’re a baby when you receive your baptism — so you really don’t remember it. But since I’m older, I’ll be able to remember it,” Diana said. “My parents signed me up at first, but by the end of the first year I liked it so much I wanted to continue so I could get my sacraments, learn more about God and what’s important in life, and meet new people.”
Suzane Hare’s two stepchildren, Justin, 12, and Kaitlyn, 11, are also part of the R.C.I.A at St. John Bosco. They’ve been participating in the process for the past six months, and Hare says she can see a difference in them.
“They believe in God, and I’m hoping as time goes on we’ll see more of a positive influence,” Hare said.
Kaitlyn’s favorite parts of the R.C.I.A. are learning about Scripture, learning about God in a group setting, and learning her prayers, she said. Her brother Justin agreed.
“It’s been a good experience,” he said. “I think it’s cool.”
This year, Sister Barbara Jude is overseeing the R.C.I.A journeys of five children — a couple of them teenagers.
The children meet twice a week. On Tuesdays, the five are placed with CCD (Confraternity of Christian Doctrine) classes with children their own age. Then, on Thursdays, they meet in small group, with their families, to receive additional catechesis from Sister Barbara Jude.
“It is a time when they come to understand breaking open Scripture — understand the celebration of the Word of God, and how we worship together,” Sister Barbara Jude said. “We expose them to outreach activities in the parish, and encourage them to serve the Lord in some way.”
Sister Barbara Jude is mindful of the kaleidoscope of family situations that lead children to the R.C.I.A process. So when she weighs whether each child has received enough catechesis to become a full member of the community of the Church by the time Easter arrives — which is generally when new members receive the sacraments of initiation, baptism, confirmation and holy Communion — she also considers whether that child’s family life will support the child once he or she is fully initiated into the Church.
Lisa Ferleger, for example was raised without a religion. But when, at 17, she came into the Church, every member of her family was there to support her decision.
“Receiving my sacraments was something I’ll never forget,” Ferleger said. “I had never been to an Easter Vigil — it was really an experience. My whole family got to stand up with me when I was baptized. My dad was crying. … Everyone was crying.”
The Archbishop Wood senior’s first experience with the Catholic Church began at the age of 12, when she started going to Mass with her best friend.
Later, as a sophomore at a public high school, she and her best friend decided to transfer to Archbishop Wood Catholic High School. It was there, Ferleger said, that they felt they’d get the kind of education they wanted.
Soon, Ferleger found herself immersed in a Catholic culture, and it wasn’t long before she wanted to have more of God in her life. “That summer, I became more curious,” she said. “I heard about R.C.I.A., and that I could go and see if I was really interested in becoming Catholic without any pressure. I went to the first meeting and decided that I did want to learn more.”
It was a few months into that period of discernment known in R.C.I.A. as the period of evangelization and pre-catechumenate, that Ferleger knew she did want to become Catholic. She embarked on her R.C.I.A. journey with Sister Barbara Jude.
She was accepted as a catechumen — someone who is being instructed in the beliefs of the Catholic Church with the purpose of becoming a member. During that time of preparation, Ferleger was accompanied by her best friend, who went on to become her sponsor.
“It felt so right to me,” Ferleger recalled. “Everyone was so welcoming and open. I could ask any question and not be embarrassed. I didn’t feel like an outsider because we were all sharing in a similar experience. It was amazing to hear each person’s story and share mine.”
Ferleger continued the R.C.I.A journey to her full initiation during the Easter Vigil last year. Not only was her non-Catholic family supportive, but so were her friends and her religion class, which threw her a party.
Reflecting on the past year, Ferleger said that her Catholic school, her friends and family, and her parish community have all helped her live out her new life as a Catholic.
“People in the parish were giving me hugs for weeks and weeks after the Easter Vigil — talking to me, and seeing how I was doing,” she said.
CS&T staff writer Nadia Pozo can be reached at npozo@adphila.org or (215) 965-4614.
Where to go when you just don’t know
Finding the faith? Need to catch up? Converting or returning, the Church has something just for you
By NADIA POZO
CS&T Staff Writer
Michael was a non-practicing Buddhist from China, but after he came to Philadelphia to pursue a master’s degree at the University of Pennsylvania, he befriended several practicing and faith-filled Catholic students.
Soon his interest was piqued, and he began to ask questions, observing his friends’ religious practices and faith-filled lives, and occasionally attending Mass with them.
One day, he asked his friend, Ben, what he needed to do if he wanted to become Catholic.
Like many of us, Ben wasn’t sure what to say. He had heard about the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults [known as RCIA], but he didn’t know how it worked — so he suggested that they visit the pastor of Ben’s parish.
The pastor welcomed Michael, and explained that RCIA is designed for unbaptized adults. An unbaptized, non-Christian first goes through an informal period in which he has an opportunity to ask more questions, to be introduced to Gospel values, and to discern how God is calling him to this new way of faith and conversion as a Catholic Christian.
That period of discernment, called the Period of Evangelization and Pre-Catechumenate, has no fixed duration or structure; it depends on how much time someone such as Michael might need.
Then, when Michael feels certain he wants to become a Catholic, the first, formal step in RCIA begins. It is a celebration in the presence of the parish community.
Known as Acceptance into the Order of Catechumens, the service consists of the candidate’s expression of his intention to respond to God’s call and to follow the way of Christ, and the Church’s acceptance of him as a catechumen — someone who is being instructed in the beliefs of the Catholic Church with the purpose of becoming a member.
The catechumenate lasts at least a year, so that all catechumens have the opportunity to hear the Word of God delivered through each season of the Church’s liturgical calendar.
With the help of his pastor and other parishioners, Michael’s faith will grow and be nurtured throughout that period, as he discovers the mystery of salvation and learns the truths of the Catholic faith in light of the Sunday Scriptures and the Paschal Mystery. Also, during that time of formation, Michael will observe how a Catholic lives a life of service and witnesses to the Good News of Jesus Christ.
The next step, officially known as the Rite of Election or Enrollment of Names, is a liturgical rite by which the catechumenate period is completed, and a new and more intense period of preparation begins.
As the Church formally ratifies the catechumen’s readiness for the sacraments of initiation into the faith, and the catechumens express their will to receive the sacraments, their life as catechumens ends, and they are considered “elect.”
A period of “purification and enlightenment” follows. During that time, Michael will have the time to reflect on what he’s about to do. It’s a time when he’ll focus on his spiritual readiness through interior reflection rather than through catechetical instruction.
After that, Michael will be ready to receive the sacraments of initiation — baptism, confirmation and holy Communion — in a rite that is usually celebrated during the Easter Vigil.
Michael will then be fully in communion with the Church, and will be able to carry out the mission of the people of God in the Church and in the world. But, he’ll still be young in the faith.
In the final period of RCIA, known as Mystagogy, Michael will be called a “neophyte.”
The Church will continue to support him in a formal way through that time, and he will experience being fully part of his community through Sunday Mass and the sacrament of reconciliation. As he continues in his faith journey, the reception of the sacrament of penance, along with more catechesis and a deeper understanding of the Catholic faith is encouraged.
According to Ann Menna, the coordinator for the archdiocesan Office for Formation of the Laity, the RCIA process is similar to a form of apprenticeship, in which a non-Christian person discovers how God is working in his or her life, and how the Church plays a role in that.
But the Church is aware that the path to Christ and the Catholic Church varies from person to person. Though the steps and stages of RCIA guide the journey to the Easter sacraments, it is important to discern the story of each unbaptized person’s relationship with Christ, she said.
Take Ashley, who would also be in the category of an unbaptized non-Christian adult, but whose experience is completely different.
Ashley has no faith background, but is married to a Catholic and is raising their children in the faith. She is becoming more and more involved in the Church as her children reach the age when they will receive the sacraments. She has kept herself informed about the sacraments, in order to address her children’s questions. And in doing so, she’s found a growing desire to become Catholic as well.
Since Ashley has been exposed to the faith, and has a bond with the parish community and school through her children, she may be ready to be accepted directly into the Order of Catechumens. Her path would be discerned together with the pastor, catechist or director of religious education.
And what about a baptized Christian, such as John, — a practicing Lutheran who is getting ready to marry Elise, a practicing Catholic — who decides that he wants to become Catholic?
According to the the United States National Statutes for the Catechumenate, John should not be treated as a catechumen, like Michael or Ashley — because, through his baptism, he is already in a relationship with Jesus Christ.
John’s path to full communion with the Catholic Church will be different from theirs. The most appropriate doctrinal and spiritual preparation for him would be determined by the extent to which he has practiced his faith as a Christian, and how much knowledge he has of the Catholic faith.
Likewise, the situation for a baptized Catholic who has never practiced the faith would also be determined on an individual basis. For that person, his pastor or catechist would determine how much preparation he needs before receiving the rest of the sacraments of initiation.
And finally, what about children who were never baptized as infants, but whose parents — now that the the children are of catechetical age (7 years old, or older) — want them to be fully initiated into the Church, or who desire that for themselves?
The same rites and stages of the RCIA for adults are also intended for those children.
“Although you can find materials written for RCIC [a so-called “Rite of Christian Initiation for Children”] and some in the field of children’s catechesis promote this idea — there is no rite of the Catholic Church known as RCIC,” said Menna.
However, the Church does include a section in the RCIA that addresses the needs of children in light of their age and faith background, she said.
That is because the Church recognizes that children 7 years old or older are capable of personal faith, and of recognizing an obligation in conscience — but since they are dependent on their parents and influenced by their surroundings, there must be age-appropriate considerations for the good of their faith formation.
If there are other unbaptized children in the parish, for example, a children’s catechumenate might be formed so they can experience the process together and grow from each other’s example.
There is one group for whom RCIA is not appropriate: Inactive, fully initiated Catholics who want to return to the Church.
In that case, Menna said, “Approaches such as ‘Landings,’ and other programs … address [those] needs more specifically. And in other cases, some will make a good confession and then return to the practice of the faith.”
The Archdiocesan Office for Formation of the Laity may be reached by calling (215) 587-5630.
CS&T staff writer Nadia Pozo can be reached at npozo@adphila.org or (215) 965-4614.
Resources to help in the Faith journey
Compiled by Nadia Pozo
CS&T Staff Writer
Studies have shown that the first seven years of a child’s life are the most formative — especially when it comes to a religious foundation. With that in mind, it’s never too early to start your child’s religious education, and never too late to be fully initiated into the faith. Although not a comprehensive resource, the following resource list will help you or your child learn about, and grow in, the faith.
1 to 3 years old
• “Holy Baby! Seven Prayers in Seven Languages” — introduces infants and young children to seven foundational prayers of the rosary in seven major languages of the world. Included are the Apostles’ Creed, Our Father and the Hail Mary and many more in English, French, Spanish, Latin, Vietnamese, German and Portuguese. DVD $19.95. www.therosaryproject.com.
• Holy Baby! 2: Jesus Loves Me, He is the Bread of Life — Baby Bosco, inspired by St. John Bosco — lengendary friend of children — and his puppy Grigio, host a delightful parade of Catholic art, statuary, toys, and children at play. Songs included on the DVD are: Holy Baby!; Jesus Loves Me; Rise & Shine; Holy, Holy, Holy; This Little Light of Mine; Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee; Faith of Our Fathers and Alleluia Sing to Jesus. DVD $19.95. www.therosaryproject.com.
Children 4 to 10 years old
• Best of Little Children DVD — features Broadway and Hollywood actress Jennifer Naimo, who will teach your child to pray the rosary, the Divine Mercy chaplet, the Angelus, the Guardian Angel Prayer, the Memorare and many more — all while learning about Scripture, the sacraments and the saints. DVD $19.99. www.americancatholic.org. • Saints picture books — set of 12 — includes 12 different picture books in a gift box set. Contains short biographies of over 150 saints. Recommended for children ages 3 to 10. $17.50. www.ewtn.com Religious Catalogue.
• First Communion DVD — Mischievous boys, who mistakenly believe that a pirate’s treasure is hidden in the village church, learn from an orphan girl that the greatest treasure is in the tabernacle. They discover that Jesus is in the Blessed Sacrament, waiting for our prayers and looking for us in holy Communion. Jesus appears to the children which provides the motivation for the boys to prepare for First Communion. DVD $16.95. www.ewtn.com Religious Catalogue.
• Noah’s ark floor puzzle — Made especially for little hands, this puzzle has 36 large pieces and measures 24" x 36" when completed. This puzzle is colorful and fun to work, and it is also a great way to learn the alphabet. For ages 3 and up. $11.00. www.ewtn.com.
• Set of seven coloring books — includes: coloring book about the rosary; the holy Bible; Mary; the sacraments; the commandments; the Stations of the Cross; and everyday prayers. Each book has a laminated cover and 32 pages of informative coloring fun for young children. $8.50. www.ewtn.com.
• The Angel Song — Christmas Episode DVD — Part of hit EWTN childrens’ Cherub Wings series. Experience the warmth, enthusiasm, anticipation and joy of the birth of a tiny, little boy whose seemingly insignificant birth would echo hope for centuries to come. $9.99. www.ewtn.com.
• Bible Quiz Flip Book — 1,800 questions and answers carefully selected by Catholic educators to reinforce knowledge of the faith as children advance from grade to grade. Two hundred key questions and answers per book for each grade level from 1st to 6th grade. Covers the Law, Prophets, Wisdom, Gospel, and Epistles. Church approved. $6.95. www.pray4usa.com/catechi.htm.
Older Children
• The Catholic Catechism learning system — Offering over 650 questions and answers and simultaneously playable at three different skill levels, this board game offers a great way for all family members (11 and older) to join in the fun. This game is ideal for classrooms, youth groups, sacramental preparation and small group retreats. $20.00. www.ewtn.com.
• The 3rd Edition Starter Decks — The decks introduce 100 cards, including 94 new characters, enhancements, and artifacts from the Bible in a ready to play format. Each deck set contains two decks (E & F) and one newly updated and expanded 60 page rulebook. For two players ages 8 and up. $10 at www.cool2Bcatholic.com or toll-free number 1-877-266-5223.
Children of all ages
• Miracle of Marcelino DVD — Tells the heartwarming story of an orphan boy raised by Franciscan monks in a monastery. The boy, Marcelino, encounters Jesus in a sensitive and miraculous way. One day, he find a special friend in the forbidden attic hanging on a cross. A friend that would repay Marcelino's kindness by granting him one heartfelt wish. DVD $19.95. www.ewtn.com
• The Catholic Edition Ungame — the leading family communications game, in which players progress along the playing board as they answer questions such as, “What are the four most important things in your life?” and “ What do you think life would be like in 100 years?” This non-competitive game can be a great ice-breaker or a serious exchange of thoughts, feelings and ideas. Ages 5 and up. 2-6 players. $19.99. www.cool2Bcatholic.com or call toll-free number 1-877-266-5223.
• Catholic-opoly — is a religious family board game based on the Catholic faith. The goal of the game is not to accumulate wealth, but to build as many churches and cathedrals as possible in order to spread the Word of the Lord. You still win by bankrupting your opponents, but in a nice, fun way. In addition, the game addresses financial management as well as charity and tithing. Game tokens include an angel, ark, chalice, donkey, dove, and fish. The drawing cards are “Faith” and “Community Service”.$29.99. www.cool2Bcatholic.com or call toll -free number 1-877-266-5223.
• Saint series featured in fully animated, color video and DVD through EWTN — including such saints as Juan Diego, Messenger of Guadalupe; Patrick, Brave Shepherd Of The Emerald Isle and Bernadette, The Princess of Lourdes Video $9.99. Also available on DVD, $14.99. www.ewtn.com.
• Defenders Catholic Flash Cards — will help young Catholics learn their faith in a flash! The 50 full-color cards feature common questions people ask about the Catholic faith, as well as short, easy-to- understand answers. Written by Matthew Pinto, author of the best-seller “Did Adam & Eve Have Belly Buttons?” and Katherine Andes. $11.99. www.aquinasandmore.com.
Teens
• Did Adam & Eve Have Belly Buttons? — brings complex Catholic teachings down to a level that teens can understand. Best-seller book by MatthewPinto.$12.99 www.catholiccompany.com.
• Catechumen™ CD-ROM — one-player action game for teens and up teaching about good and evil. To defeat evil, our Catechumen is sent to open the eyes of the possessed Roman soldiers, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins. Rated “Teen with Animated Violence” but with no blood or gore. DOVE Family Approved. Windows only. $21.99. At www.cool2Bcatholic.com or call toll-free number 1-877-266-5223
• U Got 2 Pray — Helping teens to pray written by Father Stan Fortuna. Paper, 128 pages $9.95. www.francescoproductions.com or call (718) 401-7349.
• Sacro Song II CD — by Father. Stan Fortuna, including hit rap song, “Everybody Got to Suffer.” www.francescoproductions.com or (718) 401-7349.
• Catechism of the Catholic Church on CD-ROM (software) — The complete Catechism linked to a study companion and a comprehensive introduction — all in an enriched multimedia format. A study guide like no other. Approved by Pope John Paul II, this is the first Universal Catechism in over 400 years. A clearly stated synthesis of the Catholic Church’s teachings on faith, morals, prayer, and the sacraments. $39.95. www.pray4usa.com/catechi.htm.
• Faith Explained — Illuminates the central elements of the Catholic faith in a lively, clear and direct style. Updated to include changes since the second Vatican Council. This is an increasingly popular book for R.C.I.A. instruction as well as for personal study of the faith by interested non-Catholics., soft-cover, 479 pages, by Leo Trese. $9.95. www.pray4usa.com.
• Faith Facts: Answers to Catholic Questions — Contraception, liturgy, Church authority, apologetics issues, catechesis, sex education, homosexuality. These and many other contemporary issues are addressed in a fraternal and constructive manner. Soft cover. By Leon Suprenant, Jr. and Philip C.L. Gray. $11.95. www.pray4usa.com.
• I Kissed Dating Goodbye: A New Attitude Towards Romance and Relationships — Dating: Isn’t there a better way? “I Kissed Dating Goodbye” suggests there is. Reorder your romantic life in the light of God’s Word and find more fulfillment than a date could ever give — a life of sincere love, true purity and purposeful singleness, pages 221, soft-cover, By Joshua Harris. $12.99. www.pray4usa.com.
• Sex and Love: What's A Teenager To Do — In this dynamic, high-energy presentation, Mary Beth Bonacci talks to teens about the “do’s” of chastity. Using Scripture, Church teaching, and humorous, down-to-earth examples from teenage life, she shows that chastity is more than just abstinence — chastity is active. It’s about loving — the right way, God’s intended way. VHS. $19.95. www.pray4usa.com under Young Adult.
• Your Questions, God’s Answers — Peter Kreeft uses Scripture to answer questions young people ask about the deeper meaning of life, 125 pages, soft-cover. $9.95. www.pray4usa.com/catechi.htm under Young Adult.