Registration for Rite of Election is Open
This edition also includes resources for discernment and helps for preparing catechumens for the Rite of Sending and Rite of Election.
We look forward to gathering by vicariate with Bishop Knestout for the Rite of Election.

Child and adult catechumens who are discerned ready for full initiation into the Catholic Church at this Easter Vigil should be registered, whether they are able to attend in person or not.

Parishes who do NOT have any catechumens for this Easter Vigil should also complete the form to record that information. Thank you.

West Vicariate: Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Salem
Saturday, March 5, 2022 at 10:00am

Central Vicariate: Saint Mary, Richmond
Saturday, March 5, 2022 at 3:00pm

East Vicariate: Basilica of St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception, Norfolk
Sunday, March 6, 2022 at 3:00pm
Preparing for the Rites of Sending and Election
Join Sheri Kemp for a one hour RCIA Roundtable where we will walk through both the Rite of Sending of the Catechumens for Election and the Rite of Election (or Enrollment of Names). This workshop is being offered at multiple times to assist attendance by the many "newer" RCIA team leaders and members we have in our diocese. Experienced RCIA ministers are welcome to join and share in the learning and enrichment.

During our time we will focus on what the rites ask of our catechumens, their godparents and the community, and observe how they offer a rich resource for preparing the catechumens to actively celebrate the rites.

Gather online with others in your ministry; share insights and blessings; reflect on the wisdom of the initiation process and the splendid power of the Holy Spirit at work in our Church. Have your RCIA Study Edition book handy!

Please register in advance for one of three, one-hour sessions:
Note: This workshop will NOT cover logistics for celebrating the Rites. Parishes attending the Rite of Election will have access to a webinar on March 1 specific to those details.
Discernment and the RCIA
RCIA text paragraph 75 outlines the primary "content" of the catechumenate, which we can also use as guideposts for discerning readiness. The main goal is conversion; not just wanting to "be Catholic," but to living a life of Christian discipleship within the Catholic Church.

We also know that discipleship can manifest differently in the life of each person. For this reason, it is critical that not just one person is "responsible" for discerning readiness of the catechumen(s) for initiation. Sponsors, parish community, fellow RCIA team members and the catechumen/candidate themselves are included in this process.

Check out these links for more information on:

Practicing discernment as a team so as to better guide others.

Brief video for teaching children discernment, as well as other resources to share with adults.

Share this video with inquirers to assist them in living a more discerning life.

Overnight Training at Roslyn is Back!
Save the Date: July 29-30, 2022
Topic: Making Disciples
Registration opens in March
Additional Training Opportunities
Sign up for online courses through LTP and TeamRCIA. If cost is an issue, please contact Sheri Kemp. We are happy to help subsidize trainings!

Feb. 24, March 3, March 10

Prerecorded course - take at your own pace
RCIA Questions?
RCIA process, formation, preparation, children's initiation, and more - Contact Sheri Kemp, 804-622-5113,

Liturgical Questions? Contact the Office of Worship at 804-622-5235, worship@richmonddiocese.org

Marriage or Annulment Questions? Contact the Office of the Tribunal at 804-355-9155