Rite of Christian Initiation (RCIA)

RCIA – Stands for the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults.  It is a program designed to address the needs of those seeking to become fully initiated Catholics. RCIA categories are as follows:

Catechumens – Those who come from another faith tradition and were never baptized or for those who have no history of practicing in any faith tradition and have never been baptized.  Cannon law states that any person who has reached the age of seven and has not yet been baptized must join the RCIA.  The process takes 1 to 2 years.

Candidates – Are persons who have been baptized but have not received First Eucharist and Confirmation.  Baptism is a one time sacrament.  Those who have been baptized in other Christian faith traditions will not be baptized again.  Children who have reached the age of eight years of age and do not have two years in religious formation and not received First Eucharist must enter the RCIA process.

The members of the RCIA attend the 10:30 AM mass every Sunday; they are dismissed after the homily and then attend a 1 hour class.  If you would like  to enter this program please contact Deacon Frank Yuhas @ 732-985-5063

Adult Confirmation – Is for those Catholics who have reached the age of 16 years and older are not been Confirmed in the Roman Catholic Faith.  St. Matthew the Apostle Confirms adults on Pentecost Sunday each year.  All seeking Adult Confirmation must be baptized and received First Eucharist in the Catholic faith . They are also required to attend 3 evening classes prior to receiving the sacrament..  To enroll in this program contact Deacon Frank Yuhas @732-985-5063.