Adult Formation

Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA)
Adult Confirmation
Baptism Preparation Classes for Parents
Adult Seminars, Classes and Formation Opportunities
More Information

Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA)

What is RCIA?
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the process through which new members are welcomed into the Catholic Church. “The RCIA is designed for (those) who, after hearing the mystery of Christ proclaimed, consciously and freely seek the living God and enter the way of faith and conversion as the Holy Spirit opens their hearts.”

Who can be in RCIA?
RCIA is open to all unbaptized persons ages seven and older. It is also the appropriate path to full communion with the Catholic Church for those who have already been baptized in another Christian community. It may also be suitable for some adults who have been baptized in the Catholic Church but have not received the sacraments of Reconciliation, Eucharist and Confirmation.

What is involved in RCIA?
RCIA takes place in four stages. First, there is a time for Inquiry, where time and space is provided for inquirers to ask questions and explore the Catholic faith. Second, during the Catechumenate, the catechumen dedicates him or herself to learning more about the Christian faith. Third, the period of Enlightenment marks a time for prayer and specific preparation for the sacraments. Finally, the stage of Mystagogy, after one receives the sacraments of initiation, is a time set aside for continued education and growth in faith with full participation in the community.

Who makes a good RCIA sponsor?
RCIA sponsors are at least 16 years old, confirmed Catholics, active members of their parish communities, and are in good standing with the Catholic Church. RCIA sponsors should come with you often to your classes, pray with you and for you, and be involved in your life after you receive the sacraments of initiation. Often, RCIA sponsors are people you already know, but sometimes they are dedicated and faithful St. Francis Borgia parish members who are willing to get to know you during this part of your journey of faith.

When can I get started?
At St. Francis Borgia, RCIA is a year-round process. If you are interested or would like to learn more, please see "More Information" below.

Also see: Welcome New Parish Members (April/Easter 2011 eMessenger newsletter)

Adult Confirmation

What is Adult Confirmation?
Adult Confirmation preparation is offered to baptized, practicing Catholics who have made First Penance and First Eucharist but were never confirmed. Individuals are given the opportunity to review the fundamentals of the Faith, the meaning of Church, the commandments of God and the sacraments as means of Grace.

What is involved in Adult Confirmation?
Convenient individual and small group Confirmation preparation sessions are offered. These sessions are customized to the individual candidate. The goal of the sessions is to assure that the candidate is active and formed in the faith, thereby satisfying the Church’s prerequisites for reception of the sacrament.

Who makes a good Confirmation sponsor?
Confirmation sponsors are at least 16 years old, confirmed Catholics, active members of their parish communities, and are in good standing with the Catholic Church. Confirmation sponsors should come with you to some sessions, pray with you and for you, and be involved in your life after you are confirmed. Often, Confirmation sponsors are people you already know, but sometimes they are dedicated and faithful St. Francis Borgia parish members who are willing to get to know you during this part of your journey of faith.

When can I get started?
At St. Francis Borgia, Adult Confirmation is a year-round process. If you are interested or would like to learn more, please see "More Information" below.

Baptism Preparation Classes for Parents
Monthly classes are held for all parents requesting baptism of their children. This class is usually held in the Gathering Area of the North Church at 7:00 p.m. on the last Tuesday of the month. (Check the calendar to verify the date.) Discussion focuses on the meaning and history of Christian baptism in the Catholic tradition, as well as canonical, diocesan and parish requirements.

For more information on Baptism, see Baptism in the Prayer and Worship section of this website.

Adult Seminars, Classes and Formation Opportunities
Adult education and formation classes are scheduled throughout the year. These classes include Scripture study as well as enrichment programs on family and personal growth topics. These sessions are announced through the parish bulletin and website.

Example:
Destination Marriage is a speaker series for married couples. Co-hosted by the Archdiocese of Milwaukee, we welcome you to join us for free drinks, free food, free babysitting and free time together. The series will be held on Saturday nights from 7:00-9:00 p.m. at St. Francis Borgia School.

• September 17 – Marriage Myths Busted
  • For a limited time only: Click on the start arrow to listen to the audio file from this presentation. Alternatively, you can download the audio file here.

• October 22 - Avoiding Polygamy (The Three 'F's: Faithfulness, Fruitfulness, and Freedom)
  • For a limited time only: Click on the start arrow to listen to the audio file from this presentation. Alternatively, you can download the audio file here.

• November 12 – Raising Catholic Kids
  • For a limited time only: Click on the start arrow to listen to the audio file from this presentation. Alternatively, you can download the audio file here.

• December 10 – You're Only Together for Life

No registration is needed unless you are in need of childcare. Questions? Information is available on the Destination Marriage page on the John Paul II Center website and in a flyer. You can also contact our Director of Adult and Family Ministry -- Ellen Vanden Eykel at 377-1070, ext. 250 or send her an e-mail

More Information
For more information on any aspect of adult formation, contact the Director of Adult and Family Ministry at 377-1070, ext. 250, or send an e-mail. (Names and biographies of Christian Formation staff are on the Parish Staff page.)