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Education : Catechumenate : What is the Catechumenate?
What is the Catechumenate?

 The process by which Adults and Children over 7 years of age become Catholic

Diocesan Catechumenate Executive Committee Members
Judith Waggoner, Director
Rev. Joseph Badding
Rev. Matt Nycz
Patty Marshall
Deborah Keenan
Paula Harris Penepent

Can you answer "Yes" to any of these questions:

  • Are you interested in learning more about the Catholic Church?
  •  Are you unbaptized but recognize a need for spirituality in your life?
  • Are you baptized Catholic or baptized into another religion but never received any formal religious education?
  • Are you married to a Catholic and attend Mass but just don't know what the next step is to become one of the Catholic faithful?

The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the place for you. Every year adults are welcomed into the Catholic Community through RCIA. It is a learning and loving process in which conversion of the heart brings you to Jesus Christ who is our Lord and Savior.

Catechumenate - An Overview

The Process - Explore each of the elements of the process: Periods and Rites

The Catechumenate Team - How is your team organized? Do you have the key elements? Where do I fit in?

A Short History of the Catechumenate - How did the rites evolve?

Liturgical Principles - for use in preparing and celebrating the Rites of Christian of Adults.

Training - How are your team member trained? What training is available in the diocese?

Reference Materials - Books, Music, Videos, Links

Glossary of Terms - Confused by the language of RCIA?

Album - see pictures from different RCIA events

Team Workshops tailored to your team's needs

The Diocesan Office for the Catechumenate will come to any parish Catechumenate (no charge) to do an evening for RCIA teams on the vision of the Rite specifically tailored for your team's needs.  A great way to focus your team on the vibrant energy and spirit the Rite so freely offers! For more information call the Office, 716-847-5501.

Stay up-to-date at what is happening at the Diocese of Buffalo.
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