St. Therese of the Child Jesus at 2301 Fifth Street, Altoona, PA 16601-3863 US - Christian Initiation of Adults

This year (2009-10) Saint Therese Parish-Family begins the initiation process with an Inquiry session scheduled for late August.  Interested people can look at what is involved in preparing for Christian Initiation.  In general, catechumens (unbaptized converts) and candidates (converts vaptized in another Christian denomination) will attend Mass each weekend and be dismissed for a "breaking open of the word," heard during the Liturgy of the Word.  Later that day or during the week, an instruction class on some aspect of the Catholic faith will be covered.  Parish catechumens and candidates will also take part in the diocesan Rites and Retreats.  The Rite of Reception will take place in early September.  This will lead to reception into the Church by Baptism and confirmation by the catechumens and by a Profession of Faith and Confirmation for the candidates.  
This is also an excellent oppotunity for adult Catholics who have not been fully initiated, that is, who have not been confirmed, to prepare for that sacrament.  These individuals will not have to take part in all the rites and ceremonies of the Christian Initiation of Adults.  Our parish-family is filled with joy and support for these individuals on their journey of faith.

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