st simon the apostle, ROWVILLE

Parish Office: 9764 4058

Email: office@stsimonsparish.com.au

RCIA is the normal way in which adults become full, active, participating members of the Catholic Church.

The goal of the process is "full communion" which means "full active participation" in the Eucharist and in the whole life of the Catholic faith community.

RCIA helps adults to grow in their relationship with God, become familiar with Catholic teachings, get acquainted with people in the community and involved in service within the community.

ALREADY BAPTISED?
Many persons who want to join the Catholic Church have already been baptised in another Christian Church.They attend the sessions but do not need to be baptised again?

FIRST STEP
 - A PERIOD OF ENQUIRY
The RCIA process is a period of reflection, prayer, instruction, discernment and formation. Those who join the process are encouraged to proceed at their own pace, but, on average, the journey takes about 8-12 months of weekly or fortnightly sessions.

If the candidate wishes,this leads to the reception of the Sacraments of Baptism (if required), Confirmation and Eucharist at Easter with an ongoing attendance at Sunday Mass and observance of Catholic teachings and practices.

WHO ELSE IS INVOLVED?
Besides the RCIA Team, the entire community who participate in the Sunday Eucharist has a role to play through prayer and welcome. Overseeing it all is our Parish Priest,
Fr Mark Reynolds & Assistant Parish Priest Fr. Samuel Pearson.


WHO ARE THE SPONSORS?
The Sponsors are Catholics, known to you or appointed by St Simon's, and they walk with you on your faith journey. They are there to help, support and encourage you and to provide a tangible link between you and the community. They are companions on your journey.

Are you or a friend thinking
 of becoming a Catholic?

The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults will begin with an information night later in the year at a date to be advised for those who will prepare for Easter Sacraments in 2026.

RCIA IS FOR: 

Adults who are not baptised, Adults baptised in another Christian church, 
and non-practicing Catholics wishing to renew their faith.

• Have you been feeling a nudge in your heart to deepen your relationship with God?

• Are you searching for meaning in your life?

• Do you feel restless, without direction?

• Are you looking to join a Faith Community?

• Do you want to know more about the Catholic Faith?

• Are you a Catholic who has not been confirmed or received first communion

If you answered "YES" to any of these questions, RCIA may be the answer you are seeking.  Call the Parish Office on 9764 4058 or Phillip on 0437 343 022 or just come along on the night. “Come and see.”

SESSION TIMES to receive Sacraments at Easter 2026
7:30 pm - 9:00 pm Tuesdays at the Parish Centre to begin later in the year. (Commencement date to be advised)

The RCIA Program follows the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults approved by the
Catholic Congregation for Divine Worship
in 1987.

If you would like to be a sponsor of a RCIA candidate or join the RCIA Team,
please contact the parish office on 9764 4058 or email: rowville@cam.org.au

We ask parishioners to please pray for the RCIA Enquirers, Sponsors,
and team.