Those of us who have been Catholics all our lives take the symbols and rituals of Advent for granted. But for those who are seeking to join the Church, the pre-Christmas season presents an opportunity to immerse themselves more deeply into the Catholic way of life.
They catch the spirit of joyful anticipation as they worship with us on Sundays. They are full of questions about the Advent wreath, the liturgical colors, the Parish Reconciliation Service, and the meaning of the scriptures chosen for Advent. They learn the Catholic way of preparing for Christmas by attending our parish events and participating in works of charity like Angel Tags. The Catholic-seekers among us can be models of wonder and awe for those of us who may have become a little less enthusiastic about the season. Invite your non-Catholic Friends and relatives to attend Mass with you. It may refresh your sense of this meaningful time of year. If you or anyone you know is interested in finding out more about the Catholic Church, please contact Catherine Shadduck at (805) 482·6417 x331 or catherine@padreserra.org
 The “Elect” are those who will be initiated at the Easter Vigil (April 20) through the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist. This year we are blessed to have five Elect. The Book of the Elect and their photos are displayed in the church to the east of the baptism pool.
On Sunday, March 3, they celebrated the Rite of Election with Bishop Barron at Our Lady of the Assumption Church in Ventura along with many other catechumens from our region. They were recognized for the progress they have made as disciples of Jesus. Their godparents testified on their behalf as they stood before the bishop who declared, “Elect of God: the Church, in the name of Christ, calls you to the sacraments at the next Easter Vigil!” Lent is the Elect’s final and intense period of preparation for the sacraments. Please pray for them throughout this season as we all prepare for the glorious celebration of Jesus’ Resurrection. Have you or someone you know been thinking about joining the Catholic Church but not yet taken that next step to inquire? Make it one of your New Year’s resolutions!
For more information please contact Catherine at (805) 482·6417 x331 or catherine@padreserra.org New members are welcomed into the Catholic faith through the RCIA, the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults. Through this process, seekers encounter Jesus in scripture, in prayer, in liturgical rites and through interaction with the parish community. They gather for weekly catechetical sessions to inquire about what the Catholic Church teaches, and to discern how they are being called to be disciples of Jesus, each in his or her own particular circumstance.
There is a corresponding process adapted for school-aged children, middle-schoolers and teens who are seeking baptism. If you would like to know more about the RCIA process, for adults or for children, please email Catherine Shadduck at catherine@padreserra.org or call (805) 482·6417 ext. 331. Also visit: Adults Are you interested in learning more about the Catholic Church? Do you have questions about what the Church teaches about suffering, hope and forgiveness? Do you wonder why we worship as we do, what happens at confession, why the Blessed Virgin Mary is so important to Catholics? These and many other topics are explored on Tuesday evenings at the parish in an informal setting. Come and see.
For more information, please contact Catherine Shadduck at (805) 482·6417 x331 or catherine@padreserra.org
How many of your family and friends are wonderful people who are not yet Catholic? Often all it takes for them to consider the possibility of becoming Catholic is a little prompt from us. Begin by sharing a story of your own. Ask them about their beliefs. Invite them to the parish picnic on June 16, where they can experience our welcoming community for themselves.
For information about the process of becoming Catholic, please contact Catherine Shadduck anytime (805) 482·6417 ext 331 or catherine@padreserra.org Also visit: RCIA |
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