Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (R.C.I.A.)

The R.C.I.A. program or Catechumenate is a process by which non-baptized individuals and already baptized non-Catholic Christians begin the spiritual and educational journey, leading to Baptism and/or full Communion in the Catholic faith. The team consists of parishioners who facilitate sessions and personally support the Catechumens and candidates. Each year the process begins the first of October and culminates at the Easter Vigil in the reception of the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist.

Information about the program:

- Classes will start in September
- We meet on Wednesday nights from 7:30 – 9:00
- Our meeting location is in the parish office basement at St. James.
- There is no cost
- You are invited to bring someone to attend the meetings with you to act as your sponsor
- The meetings consist of different topics being presented and discussions in a small table group.
- The topics are presented by a group St. James parishioners which we call the R.C.I.A. Team.  We explain things as best we can theologically but most importantly we share our experiences of the Catholic Faith traditions.
- The R.C.I.A. is a process that leads to baptism and/or confirmation on Holy Saturday Night (the night before Easter Sunday).
- There will be many chances for you to back out so don’t feel pressured in anyway but I think you will be surprised how much you enjoy this experience and actually look forward to our meetings.
- I personally went through the R.C.I.A. in 1987/88 shortly after I married my wife who is Catholic (obviously!) and found the experience much more insightful/rewarding than I expected and by some sort of cruel twist of fate…I mean “divine intervention” have somehow become the Director/Coordinator.
- I have been leading the RCIA since 2002 and I have found that the people who are seeking spiritual foundation in this material world are the most wonderful/special people and I look forward to meeting you and sharing this journey with you.
- You can call me at 847-506-1368 or email me jhamman@rcgdirect.com (that’s my work) or home email khamman@wowway.com  or Fr. Chris Kulig at 224-345-7202 with any questions or concerns that you have.

Peace,Jim Hamman
St. James RCIA