The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the process through which interested adults and older children are gradually introduced to the Roman Catholic faith and way of life. This is also for those who were not baptized or may have been baptized and have not completed their Sacraments of Initiation. For those who join an RCIA process it is a period of reflection, prayer, instruction, discernment, and formation. There is no set timetable and those who join the process are encouraged to go at their own pace and take as much time as they need.  However, on average the process takes nine months. Those who enter the process are expected to begin attending mass on a Sunday, attend a weekly RCIA session, and to become increasingly more involved in the activities of their local parish.
 

 Judy Ortiz 210-497-6101 ext 101 email: judy.ortiz@shrineofpadrepio.com or contact the parish office for more information 

This process is intended for children ages 7 - 17 who were not baptized as infants and have not completed their Sacraments of Initiation; or who have been baptized and have not received catechetical instruction to complete their Sacraments of Initiation. RCIC process consists of two year preparation of catechetical, pastoral, and liturgical aspects to help nurture and foster growth in faith and conversion. Parents are encouraged to be involved in the faith formation of their children by attending classes and to attend mass on a regular basis along with their children. Classes are held on Tuesdays, 6:00 - 7:15 PM, beginnin in September thru April. Registration is open all year long. RCIC First Year: Foundations In Faith RCIC Second Year: Final period of preparation for Christian initiation. Contact: Judy Ortiz, RCIC Coordinator                 210-497-6101 ext. 101

From the desk of Judy Ortiz, Director of CEP

Pope Francis has proclaimed the “Year of St. Joseph” (December 8, 2020 – December 8, 2021), in honor of the 150^th anniversary of the declaration of St. Joseph as Patron of the universal church. In Pope Francis’ apostolic letter “Patris Corde” (Within a Father’s Heart) he writes, “…I would like to share some personal reflections on this extraordinary person, so close to our own human experience. My desire to do so increased during these months of pandemic, when we experienced, amid the crises, how our lives are woven together and sustained by ordinary people, people often overlooked.”
“How many people daily exercise patience and offer hope, taking care to spread not panic, but shared responsibility.” Pope Francis goes on to name parents, grandparents, and teachers who teach children “how to accept and deal with a crisis by adjusting their lives,” continuing their familial responsibilities and encouraging their families.
St. Joseph was important person who appears, “unnoticed, a daily, discreet, and hidden presence – an intercessor, a support and a guide in times of trouble. Saint Joseph reminds us that those who appear hidden or in the shadows can play an incomparable role in the history of salvation. A word of recognition and of gratitude is due to them all.”
To parents, grandparents, catechists, teachers, and the whole faith community, I extend my sincere gratitude and appreciation for being a true domestic church. Through all the challenges that this pandemic has brought to faith formation, together have worked through our fears, frailties, and weaknesses to provide your children a sound catechesis. “Often in life, things happen whose meaning we do not understand. Our first reaction is frequently, one of disappointment and rebellion.” (4) You are an example of St. Joseph. “He cooperated in the fullness of time in the great mystery of salvation and is truly a minister of salvation.” (3) You are ministers of evangelization. The Church continues through your efforts. May God grant you continued courage in faith and peace to your domestic church, your family. I encourage you to read Pope Francis’ apostolic letter and see yourself in this great saint, St. Joseph.
God bless you.
 

RCIA - Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults

Curious about the Catholic Faith?  Thought about becoming Catholic?   Do you desire to complete your Catholic initiation?  Or, do you know someone that is interested in becoming Catholic?  The Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) is the program you seek.

What is the RCIA process?

• RCIA is a journey of faith which includes study, sharing, prayer and community building leading towards initiation in the Catholic Church.
• RCIA is appropriate for:
  • those who have never been baptized,
  • those who have been baptized in another Christian faith and would like to become Catholic; or,
  • those who were baptized Catholic but have not completed the sacraments of initiation (Confirmation and First Eucharist).

The RCIA program is offered in both English and Spanish.

If you have questions or are interested in the RCIA program, please visit the following link to fill out the RCIA inquiry form.  We are look forward to hearing from you!  https://www.shrineofpadrepio.com/rcia-inq

Do you feel called to serve in the RCIA ministry?
If you are a practicing Catholic who has a special calling in helping people journey through this process either through teaching, sponsorship or witness, please contact Maria Leija at marialeija5@yahoo.com or, (210) 986-8943.
 

CEP AT ST. PADRE PIO

(Sessions are made up of parent instruction, in-person, and virtual meetings.)

(The following are start dates and when the sessions will take place. You must be registered to attend. Please keep up to date on our Facebook page, “My Parish” app, bulletin or call the parish office)

Kinder thru 2^nd grade                    Sept. 16, 2020        Every Wednesdays 5:30p – 6:30pm
3^rd grade – 5^th grade                      Sept. 17, 2020         Every Thursdays 5:30p – 6:30pm
Middle School                                 Sept. 20, 2020       Sundays 6:00p – 7:30 pm
High School (9^th-10^th grade)         Sept. 20, 2020       Sundays 6:00p – 7:30 pm
High School (11^th-12^th grade)        Sept. 20, 2020       Sundays 6:00p – 7:30 pm

Foundation in Faith                       Sept. 14, 2020         Mondays 6:00 – 7:15 pm
RCIA, adapted for children          Sept. 15, 2020         Tuesdays 6:00 – 7:15 pm

Confirmation I (first year)            Sept. 23, 2020         Wednesdays 7:00p – 8:30p
Confirmation II (second year)     Sept. 23, 2020         Wednesdays 7:00p – 8:30p