The Sacramental Theology of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) (CT2111C)

Content

This unit presumes a knowledge of and some experience in the implementation of the RCIA. It aims at deepening and broadening the understanding of the RCIA by studying the theology underpinning the Rite. The unit will explore the following topics: the role of Jesus and the role of the Trinity in the RCIA process; the theology of conversion; the meaning and praxis of catechesis; the theology and the historical development of the sacraments of initiation; the role of the word of God in the process of conversion; the theology of Church and of communion; the theology of ministry and of ministers of the RCIA; the theology and the relationship of the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist; mystagogia as commitment, communion and mission.

Learning outcomes

Unit sequence

CT1000C and CT1001C are strongly recommended

Pedagogy

Lecture/Tutorial/Seminar

Indicative Bibliography

• Capra, Elio. Called Gifted Sent: The Sacraments of Christian Initiation and the Triduum. Melbourne: James Goold House, 2010.
• ———. Come and See: Resources for the Precatechumenate. Thornbury: Des Books, 2015.
• Irwin, Kevin W. The Sacraments: Historical Foundations and Liturgical Theology. New York: Paulist Press, 2016.
• Marchal, Michael H. The Spirit at Work: Conversion and the RCIA. Franklin Park, IL: WLP, 2010.
• Radcliffe, Timothy OP. Take the Plunge: Living Baptism and Confirmation. London: Bloomsbury Publishing, 2012. Ebook: https://divinity.on.worldcat.org/oclc/794602475
• Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults. Strathfield, NSW: St Pauls Publications, 2003. (recommended for purchase)
• Turner, Paul. The Hallelujah Highway: A History of the Catechumenate. Chicago: Liturgical Training Publications, 2000.
• ———. Celebrating Initiation. A guide for priests. Franklin Park, IL: WLP, 2007.
• Wagner, Nick. The Way of Faith. New London, CT: Twenty-Third Publications, 2010.
• Yarnold, Edward. The Awe Inspiring Rites of Initiation: The Origins of the RCIA. 2nd ed. Edinburgh: T. and T. Clark, 1994.

Assessment