Classes for the Rite of Christian Initiation (RCIA) are led by Fr. Anthony Patalano, O.P., pastor of Holy Rosary, at 7:30 p.m. on the first and third Wednesday of the month from late September to mid-May. The following are encouraged to attend these lively and informative sessions:

* Adults who have never been baptized and wish to become Catholic

* Baptized Catholics who have not received the Sacraments of Reconciliation, Holy Communion and/or Confirmation and now wish to be prepared as adults

* Christians validly baptized as Protestants who want to enter the Catholic Church

* Fallen-away or lapsed Catholics who wish to return to the practice of their faith

* Practicing Catholics who want to learn more about the Church and her teachings

* Any adult who is curious about Catholic faith and practice

Our text is Catholicism for Dummies, but don’t let the title fool you. It is a “user-friendly” source of solid doctrine and sound instruction, and, augmented by the Catechism of the Catholic Church and supportive documents, a good resource for cradle Catholics and converts alike.

During the course, several sessions will be led by the Director of Education, Janine Applegate, including an introduction to the teachings of the church on the Sacramental meaning of marriage and the Tribunal process for divorced Catholics petitioning for decrees of nullity.

We hope you consider joining us for RCIA. The schedule for 2010-11 is posted on the Siena Hall Bulletin and reminders of upcoming classes will be announced in the bulletin.