The sacrament of baptism ushers us into the divine life, cleanses us from sin, and initiates us as members of the Christian community. It is the foundation for the sacramental life.
 

• Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) 

  • RCIA is designed for non-Catholics who wish to learn more about the Catholic Church.  The RCIA process explores the meaning of faith and how Catholics express that faith in the community and in the world. It offers a chance to ask questions, raise doubts, acquire information, share, learn and grow. The process helps seekers to discern whether or not God is calling them to become Catholic. Those who complete the process celebrate the sacraments of Baptism (if needed), First Eucharist and Confirmation at the Easter Vigil.

  • RCIA sessions take place on Wednesday evenings at 7:30 pm in Room 118 of the John P. Finnegan Parish Center. Although the format will vary, most meetings will have three parts: input on the topic for the evening by a priest or lay person, an opportunity for the members of the group to share ideas and experiences relating to the topic, and time for refreshments and getting to know one another. 

  • For information concerning the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, contact RCIA Director Deacon Mark Zwolski.

• Infant Baptismal Formation 

  • Baptism preparation sessions take place at the parish on the second Sunday of every month at 6:30 pm in the narthex (gathering space) of church. (Note: Due to COVID-19, some sessions are currently being held on Zoom.) The sessions last about one hour.   At these informal sessions, trained facilitators discuss with parents: what to expect on the day of baptism; the meaning of the symbols and questions that you will encounter at the baptism rite; and ways to nurture children’s spirituality, at home and in the parish. There is always time for questions.   

  • Parents in the last months of pregnancy are invited and encouraged to attend the baptism preparation session. New parents are welcome to bring your infants. We ask that you please make arrangements for older siblings if at all possible. Registration is required. Click here to go to the registration page, or call the parish office at 847-362-1005 no later than the Thursday prior to the class to reserve your space.