The Stages of RCIA

 Period of Inquiry (Evangelization)
The first stage is the period of inquiry. During this time Inquirers reflect on the Gospel message and the ways in which they can apply it to their own lives. It is a time for questions and finding out more about the Catholic Church and the value of faith.

 Period of Teaching: (Catechumenate)
Those whose profess their faith in Jesus and desire to continue their journey towards full membership in the Catholic Church then move to their next phase where most of the teaching takes place. With the help of a sponsor and members of the community, the candidates learns about the Church as a community. This period begins with a rite, which marks the formal entrance into the catechumenate.

 Purification and Enlightenment
At the beginning of  Lent the church calls those who are ready to make final preparation for the Sacraments of initiation, which will be received at the Easter Vigil Mass. This calling takes place in the special Rite of Election.

During Lent the parish community joins the candidates in their preparation, and together they continue the journey toward the celebration of Easter.

Ordinarily the sacraments of Initiation, Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist are celebrated at the Easter Vigil liturgy. Christians who are already baptized may be formally received into full communion with the Catholic Church at this liturgy.

 Post-baptismal Catechesis (Mystagogia)
A period of fifty days from Easter to Pentecost completes the initiation process. It is a special time for the newly received to find a place in the community. This is the time for unfolding the meaning of the Easter Sacraments.