Do you wish to find out more about being Catholic, or wish to be baptized or receive first communion and/or confirmation in the Catholic Church? Do you know someone else who is wondering about it? Have you ever been ‘nudged’ into thinking “I should probably join RCIA”?
We are going to begin in early September with online sessions of a process called Alpha. These will generally meet on Sunday evenings for about 1.5 hours and include an introductory portion, a 20-30 minute video, and 30-40 minute small group discussion with about 8-10 people – online. Your small group leader will also be available during the week to answer any questions, as will I.
Although in some ways virtual meetings are not ideal, this does give us a real chance to commit to the process without having to worry about traffic, babysitting, doggy daycare, or whathaveyou. I have also heard from others that this system allows the more introverted ones among us to participate in a way that is comfortable and relationship-building.
This particular “stage” of the process will go through December and we will be assessing and planning for what comes after Alpha as the weeks go by. We will do our best to provide safe, genuine, relational formation for as long as you wish to participate.
If you’re wondering, yes we have used Alpha – followed by additional classes — in the past and historically it has been very well received and transformative. Alpha is open to all interested parties, not just those who are being formed for entrance into the Church. The big difference this year will be the online delivery system.
I would very much like to be able to plan wisely for you, so if you’re interested in participating this Fall and you have reliable access to an online system, please let me know by email (here) or by texting me at 313-883-2869.
If there may be more than one attendee from your household or circle, please include their names. If you really want to do this but know that Sunday evenings won’t work for you, please do let me know that. 🙂
Marian Bart