The Cluster Parishes Adult Formation programs are designed to support a wide range of people interested in exploring or learning more about the Catholic Faith.
If you are interested in becoming Christian and joining the Church, are a non-Catholic Christian interested in becoming Catholic, or were baptized Catholic but have not received the Sacrament of Confirmation, we welcome you to consider attending our Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) sessions. This is also a fantastic opportunity for anyone who would like to re-inforce their faith with additional "back-to-basics" learning or for anyone who might like to sponsor and mentor someone wishing to join the Church.
For more information on RCIA or becoming Catholic, contact Theresa Carpenter at 757-484-7335 or adultformation@clusterparishes.com.
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, commonly referred to as "RCIA", is the normal process through which adults may join the Catholic Church.
People desiring to join the Catholic Church often fall into one of three general categories: those who are not baptized in any Christian faith tradition, those who are baptized in a non-Catholic Christian faith, and those who are baptized Catholic but may not have completed the remaining sacraments of initiation (Confirmation and Eucharist).
RCIA is primarily designed to provide catechesis (religious instruction) to non-baptized individuals who wish to become Catholic. This includes non-baptized children seven years of age and older. Within the Cluster Parishes, the RCIA process is also what we use to bring those persons who are already baptized in a non-Catholic Christian tradition into the Catholic Church.
Additionally, the Cluster Parishes offers the RCIA process for those individuals who were baptized Catholic but have not received all of the remaining sacraments of initiation (Confirmation and/or Eucharist) as a means to complete those sacraments.
Practicing Catholics are invited to share their faith and serve as sponsors for those individuals who are completing the RCIA process.
The RCIA process has several distinct stages, which include periods of initial discernment and inquiry, structured faith formation, prayer, and community-building to help those considering becoming Catholic.
Classes normally begin each September and continue through the year, culminating in full reception into the Catholic Church at the Easter Vigil Mass.
To register, please complete the RCIA Registration Form for Adults and return the form to Theresa Carpenter at adultformation@clusterparishes.com or in person.
Special Note for Non-Baptized Children Seven Years of Age and Older
Non-baptized children ages 7 through 17 are considered adults for the purposes of preparing for the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist. Special catechesis is available for children ages 7 though 17 and is conducted at an age-appropriate level of instruction. For non-baptized children ages 7 through17, please complete the RCIA Registration Form for Children and return the form to Theresa Carpenter at christianformation@clusterparishes.com or in person.
Our 2023-2024 series of classes will meet Thursday evenings at 6:30pm - 8:00pm beginig Sept 7th
Cluster Catechumen Baptismal Registry (For adults requiring baptism, First Eucharist, and Confirmation)
Cluster First Eucharist and Confirmation Registry (For baptized adults requiring First Eucharist and Confirmation)
Cluster Confirmation Registry (For adults requiring Confirmation only)
Affidavit Regarding Reception of Sacraments (For adults having difficulty obtaining documentation of their non-Catholic baptism)
Godparent-Sponsor Attestation Form - RCIA (For a person's chosen sponsor or godparent to complete) Note: A priest/chaplain/delegate signature is NOT required within the Cluster Parishes.
Returning Catholics
If you have been away from the Catholic Church for whatever reason, or if you feel that in some way the Church left you, we invite you back to take another look. Our Catholic community of faith cares about you: We love you and we miss you!
We offer one-on-one meetings for anyone who wishes to explore their faith after having been away from regular Mass attendance. In these meetings, you can discuss your questions and concerns in a confidential environment and be assisted with your individual needs. Contact Theresa Carpenter at adultformation@clusterparishes.com or call the office to speak with her.
Please download this brochure and print it as a two-sided document. It is designed to be a tri-fold.
Continuing Adult Formation
WOMEN'S BIBLE STUDY
The women's bible study meets at 10 am at The Church of the Resurrection in Caroluzza Hall. For more information on joining the group contact Celeste Prezioso at cmprezioso@yahoo.com
THE MEN OF SAINT JOSEPH
This is a men's group that meets on Saturday mornings at 7:30 am at The Church of the Resurrection in Caroluzza Hall. The Men of St. Joseph is an association of Christian men, united under the Catholic Church, who meet weekly to pray together and encourage each other to be the spiritual leaders of their families. The purpose of the Men of Saint Joseph is to inspire and equip men to be spiritual leaders in their homes. The goal is to become stronger in our relationship with Christ and in our faith so we can help get ourselves and our families to heaven. If interested, please contact John Davidson.
WEDNESDAY ADULT FORMATION
On Wednesday nights we will gather to learn more about our faith. Sept 6th we will begin a bible study from Ascension Press, Exodus. Please pre order on the ascension website. www.ascensionpress.com and order the study bundle for 29.99. If you want to attend but the price is a bit steep for you, please contact Theresa Carpenter and we will help you out. Looking forward to a good group for this study. Every Wednesday night 7pm in the hall at Resurrection