Woman overcomes the nervousness of RCIA

By HEIDI COLLINS
Special to the WCR
Edmonton

Growing up in the Baptist Church, I had heard the yearly stories of the birth of the Lord on Christmas and the death and resurrection of Jesus at Easter. But for me there was no tradition, prayer or emotional understanding to it.

As the RCIA process continued to the Rite of Welcome, I discovered more and more how comfortable I felt in the Catholic Church, especially the sense of family and community that is at St. Agnes.

Christmas time and the season of Advent became more special to my three children and myself. Questions were gladly answered by our RCIA leaders, and the answers helped me to understand the traditions of not only the Church, but the tradition of the celebration of the birth of our Lord.

As the weeks rolled by and new and joyous things were learned, the much-awaited Rite of Election was upon us. To meet His Grace, the archbishop, is very impressive.

At first I was a little nervous and extremely worried about meeting His Grace, but the archbishop was very pleasant and put my nervousness and worries to rest right away. He has a wonderful sense of humour.

With the Rite of Election over, it was onto the Scrutinies. The three Scrutinies are during the season of Lent, and during this time I found prayer a huge blessing.

Saying the holy rosary not only at home, but just before Mass is really helpful for me. The people in my parish are understanding and helpful when I make mistakes.

The Easter Vigil is the last hurdle to overcome, but it will mean for me, at long last the spiritual home that I have so longed for. What was missing in my faith journey, I have found within the Catholic Church and St. Agnes Parish.

I do encourage all Catholics to, at the very least, pray for their RCIA group. I have found that the prayers of the parish community have helped not only me, but possibly others, to grow.

When one grows to be a better person and Christian, you can return that same prayer. I am very happy and proud to be a Catholic.

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