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Rite of Christian Initiation for Children (RCIC)




What Does RCIC Stand for In the Catholic Church?

RCIC refers to the"Rite of Christian Initiation for Children." This is a newer term than RCIA which refers to the "Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults." RCIC is the process for children to be baptized and enter the Catholic Church who have not been baptized as an infant but are now passed the age of reason and know right and wrong and can thus commit actual sins.

Why Should Children Be Baptized?

Baptism is the life-giving Sacrament instituted by our Lord to remove original sin (and all actual sin up to that time) from our souls. It is the means by which we become members of God's Church and are incorporated into His Mystical Body. Baptism is necessary for salvation, so we should never delay in having our children baptized. However, circumstances occur that prevent children from being baptized as infants. Thankfully, RCIC is how these children can receive the life-giving Sacrament of Baptism.

Who attends RCIC Classes?

Children usually between the ages of 8 and 14 take part in RCIC classes to receive the Sacrament of Baptism and enter the Catholic Church. Children in high school older than 14 usually will take part in standard RCIA classes. And children under 8 who are below the age of reason are baptized without the child needing to attend any religious education classes yet. Children who are baptized before the age of reason will simply begin CCD classes when they start their primary education.

Is Children's Catechumenate the same as RCIC?

Yes, children's catechumenate is another term to refer to the initiation of children in the life-giving and saving Catholic Faith.

Are there online RCIC classes?

Yes, in addition to in-person classes through parishes, publishes a RCIC course called "Young Adult RCIA" for children roughly between ages 8 and 14. The course contains the same doctrines that a child should know to receive Baptism. Online RCIC makes it possible for children with scheduling conflicts with school, parental custody issues, health conditions, and transportation issues to study with their parents from the comfort of their own home.

The Young Adult RCIA course was written by Fr. James Zalatava. Learn more at the link below to see sample lessons and a course outline.