Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA)
Sorting It All Out: Children and Adults in the Initiation Process
2. Unbaptized children, ages 8 and 11, seeking baptism
Kim and Thomas, ages 8 and 11, are unbaptized children who come for Baptism. They are brought to the rectory by their parents, who realize now their responsibility in bringing their children for sacraments. After an appropriate period of inquiry, which often included the parents, Kim and Thomas are admitted to the catechumenate adapted for children.
Rite used: Acceptance into the Order of Catechumens (RCIA 41-74). This rite may be celebrated with the adults who are being received into the Order of Catechumens, or separately with just a group of children (260-276). Their names are entered in the parish Register of Catechumens. During the period of the catechumenate they may celebrate any of the Rites Belonging to the Catechumenate (RCIA 81-105). At the proper time, Kim and Thomas participate in the diocesan Rite of Election.
Title: Catechumen
Definition: Unbaptized, uncatechized children of catechetical age.
Age: Catechetical age (over seven years of age) When children of catechetical age or the age of discretion are baptized, Confirmation and First Eucharist must also be celebrated at the same time. (RCIA 215, Canon 866).
Process: The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, adapted for children (called RCIA, not CICCA). Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist will be celebrated together at the Easter Vigil after an appropriate length of time. These children experience a period of formation in word, worship and mission at a level appropriately adapted to the age and faith development of the child. They may be dismissed from the Eucharist for their own Breaking Open of the Word. Catechetical formation follows right away or at some time during the week. This formation is usually at least one full year, most often longer depending on the development of the child, and the situation of his or her peers (RCIA 256). As long as the liturgical rites of the catechumenate are prepared for and celebrated, catechesis can take place with their peer groups.
Time of Celebration: Normally the Easter Vigil
Minister: The parish priest is presider.
Faculty to Confirm: No delegation is needed.
Record Keeping: Thomas and Kim's names are entered in these parish registers: Catechumenate, Baptism, Confirmation and Communion
References: RCIA, Part II: 1, 4; NS 18, 19; Canon 852.1, 866.
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