RCIA Resources

The Call to Continuing Conversion and Day of Reflection is Saturday, February 20th from 8:45 – 3:30. We are still deciding whether it will be possible to have it in person, or whether each parish will have their own retreat. All adult candidates and catechumens are invited along with their sponsors and team members (at least one team member from each parish is required to attend if sending candidates). 

The Rite of Election is on Sunday, February 21st (and possibly Tuesday, February 23rd if numbers require). If large gatherings are not permitted, this will take place in the parishes.

Can children come to these events?

The Day of Reflection is best suited to those who can participate in a long form conference type day. We generally recommend that participants be at least 16 years of age, though there is no cut off and final choices are left to the parish.

The Rite of Election is a Liturgy of the Word that lasts approximately one hour. It is a time when all catechumens who will be initiated at Easter come to be called to the Easter mysteries, regardless of age. Catechumens over 18 are required to participate in the Rite of Election, and all family members who wish to attend are welcome to come with them. Child catechumens (under 18) are welcome to participate, but are not required. If anyone over 18 who is being baptized at Easter is not able to make the Rite of Election, please contact the Liturgy & Worship office.

Why do sponsors need to attend?

In both the Call to Continuing Conversion (for candidates) and the Rite of Election (for catechumens), the sponsors attest to the readiness of the person to enter into the sacraments of initiation. The Rites both expect sponsors to be present. During the Day of Reflection, sponsors and candidates/catechumens are invited to share with each other at several points, and to accompany each other on the retreat day.

What exactly is the “Day of Reflection?”

The Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults requires each candidate/catechumen to participate in a retreat day prior to initiation. The Day of Reflection is the way the Diocese of Stockton offers this retreat day. During the Day of Reflection, speakers lead the catechumens and sponsors in reflecting on what they are undertaking. The Day is offered in English and in Spanish. An outline of the day is at the bottom of this page.

Do we have to attend these events?

Participation in the Call to Continuing Conversion and the Day of Reflection is strongly encouraged for candidates and catechumens, but is not required if they are participating in another form of a retreat day prior to initiation.

However, participation in the Rite of Election is REQUIRED for all adult catechumens who will be initiated this year.

8:30 a.m.            Registration/Hospitality Available
8:45 a.m.            Gathering in the Gym (English) and Church (Spanish)
9:00 a.m.            Call to Continuing Conversion
10:00 a.m.          Day of Reflection Begins
12:30  p.m.         Lunch on your own
1:30  p.m.           Day of Reflection Continues
3:30  p.m.           Day Concludes