ST. MONICA PARISH

• evangelization & precatechumenate

  
  This is a time of no fixed duration or structure. During this period inquirers are introduced to Jesus Christ, basic Gospel values and rudimentary prayer. Sessions allow inquirers to ask questions, share stories, build community, and discern where God is leading them in their journey of faith.

  
  First Step: The Rite of Acceptance into the Order of Catechumens

  This rite is celebrated two or three times a year in most parishes. In this rite, inquirers declare their intention publicly to the Church and the Church accepts their intent to follow God’s call to follow Christ.From this point on, they are called "catechumens" and the Church embraces them with a mother's love and concern.Though not yet baptized, catechumens are part of the household of Christ.

• period of catechumenate

  
  This is an extended period of time in which Catechumens are given formal instruction in the Christian way of life and the doctrines of the Catholic Church. They also begin to learn about Catholic worship. This period normally lasts about 18 months so that catechumens can experience an entire liturgical year, according to the adage: "you have to live through an Easter to have an Easter."

  
  Second Step: The Rite of Election

  The Rite of Election coincides with the beginning of Lent and is celebrated with the Bishop. The Rite of Sending is normally celebrated at the local parish before the Rite of Election. Godparents and catechists testify as to the readiness of the catechumens for the sacraments of initiation. At this point the catechumens are now called the "elect."
   

• purification & enlightenment

   

  This is a period of more intense spiritual preparation and takes place during the six weeks of Lent. It is a time characterized more by prayerful reflection rather than formal instruction, although some instruction still takes place. This period is intended to enlighten the minds and hearts of the elect with a deeper knowledge of Christ.  Rites belonging to this period include the scrutinies, the presentations of the Creed and Lord's Prayer, and the preparation rites on Holy Saturday.

  
  Third Step: The Sacraments of Initiation

  The moment we've all been waiting for!  Initiation takes place at the Easter Vigil on Saturday night before Easter Sunday.
  
  Now fully intiated into the Church, the elect are called "neophytes" (meaning "new plant" or "sprout"). 

• mystagogy

  
  This is a period (also known as the Period of the Post-Baptismal Catechesis) in which the neophytes, together with the community, deepen their understanding of the sacramental life and works of charity.
  
  Post baptismal catechesis is offered to the neophytes so that they may deepen their grasp of the paschal mystery, become a more committed member of the Church and a faithful witness of Christ to the world.

• full communion in the catholic church

  Coming into full communion with the Catholic Church describes the process for entrance into the Catholic Church for those who are already Baptized Christians.
  
  In most cases, these Baptized Christians (Candidates) make a Profession of Faith but are not baptized again. To prepare for this reception, the Candidates usually participate in a formation program to help them understand and experience the teachings and practices of the Catholic Church.

• Although some preparation may be with Catechumens (Unbaptized Adults) preparing for baptism, the preparation for Candidates is different since they have already been baptized and committed to Jesus Christ, and many have also been active members of other Christian communities.
  
  The Candidates may be received into the Catholic Church at the Easter Vigil or at another Sunday during the year depending on pastoral circumstances and readiness of the Candidate.