Resources
Resources for each period of RCIA
Below are resources to correspond with each period of RCIA. They are meant to empower you to do your ministry well as you lead others to a deep and lasting encounter with Jesus. If you would like advice or ideas of how to work with a particular resource, please contact us.
An essential for all RCIA programs is Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults. This book will explain the different periods and what is expected of a person as they journey through them.
Click here to order the RCIA book
The period for inquiry and first hearing of the Gospel. An opportunity for the beginnings of faith.
Videos
- Alpha
- Youth Alpha
- Search
- The Chosen
- Manifesto of Faith
- Who Am I to Judge?
- Cosmic Origins
- Convinced: Why Would Anyone Become Catholic?
- Anima
- The Human Experience
Podcasts/Audio
Books
A time of going deeper, thorough catechesis, and nurturing and growth of faith and conversion.
Video
Books
- CCC
- Walking With God
- Introduction to Catholicism: Didache Series
- RCIA Catechist’s Manual
- Open Wide the Door to Christ
- Life in Christ
- This is Our Faith
- Beginning Apologetics Series
- Rediscover Catholicism
- YouCat
Podcasts/Audio
A time of reflection designated for more intense spiritual preparation.
Video
Podcasts/Audio
Books
An experience of postbaptismal catechesis marked by the new experience of sacraments and community.
Video
- Symbolon II
- The Bible and the Church Fathers
- The Wild Goose
- The Sacraments
- The Bible and the Sacraments
- Priest Prophet King
Podcasts/Audio
Books
Resources for Catechists/Leaders
“Whatever be the level of his responsibility in the Church, every catechist must constantly endeavor to transmit by his teaching and behavior the teaching and life of Jesus.” - St. John Paul II, Catechesi Tradendae 6
These are intended for your formation and learning as you lead RCIA.
- Open Wide the Door to Christ
- Forming Intentional Disciples
- Intentional Accompaniment
- Soul of the Apostolate
- RCIA Catechist’s Manual
- From Christendom to Apostolic Mission
- Catechetical Lectures of St. Cyril
Church Documents
- Catechism of the Catholic Church
- Directory for Catechesis
- Evangelii Nuntiandi
- Catechesis Tradendae
- Guidelines for Recognition of Baptisms
Websites/Programs
“The initiation of catechumens is a gradual process that takes place within the community of the faithful. By joining the catechumens in reflecting on the value of the paschal mystery and by renewing their own conversion, the faithful provide and example that will help the catechumens to obey the Holy Spirit more generously” – RCIA 4
RCIA is not just imparting knowledge; it’s imparting a way of life. We need to practice the art of accompaniment.
“The Church will have to initiate everyone – priests, religious and laity – into this “art of accompaniment” which teaches us to remove our sandals before the sacred ground of the other (cf. Ex 3:5). The pace of this accompaniment must be steady and reassuring, reflecting our closeness and our compassionate gaze which also heals, liberates and encourages growth in the Christian life.” - The Joy of the Gospel 169
Small groups are an excellent way to share faith and accompany others. We encourage you to use small groups and one on one discipleship throughout the RCIA process. Investing in and training leaders is small group facilitation is important to successful small groups.
Explore these resources for small group facilitation:
Franciscan at Home - Online Training
The Archdiocese training for parish leaders has 3 tracks specific to RCIA. This excellent formation from the Franciscan University of Steubenville will help you in your ministry.