The following ministries accommodate the lifelong formation forums that are offered in our parish.
Camp Joy
Camp Joy is a week long vacation Bible experience offered in the Summer. Youngsters from ages 3 – 10 are invited to a themed week of singing, crafts, plays and Bible stories all culminating in a performance for the Parents. This usually takes place at the end of June or July. For information contact Mary Ann Exler at 856-435-4256 or e-mail at mexlerscb@comcast.net
Pre-Cana
If you are in a good marriage and want to help couples prepare for marriage, this ministry needs you. For more information call Janice & Mike Selvato, 856-218-1519.
Religious Education (CCD)
Religious Education Classes are conducted from September through May for grades one through eight. Our programs strive to educate our children in the essentials and beauty of the Catholic Faith while nurturing their sense of belonging to our Parish Community through liturgy, fellowship and participation in various activities. Teachers and assistants are needed each year. For complete details on the Religious Education program, please visit the Religious Education page.
Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA)
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults is a process designed to form and inform inquirers who fall into three categories:
1. The unbaptized person
2. The person baptized into a faith tradition other than Catholic (see note below)
3. The baptized Catholic who was neither confirmed nor reared as a Catholic.
The initial period, called the period of Inquiry, is just that – an opportunity to “inquire” with no pressure to proceed beyond the inquiry period. However, for those who believe that God is calling them to continue on in this spiritual journey, the RCIA process is marked by different stages and liturgies leading up to Baptism (for those who have never been baptized) or to full communion with the Catholic Church (for those who have already been baptized).
Meetings
At St. Charles Borromeo, the RCIA sessions meet every Thursday evening, with the exception of holidays from 7:30 – 9:00 p. m. in Borromeo Hall (the basement of the Church). The meetings are run by a team of faith-filled parishioners and staff. They are informal and are comprised of prayer, a presentation, discussion time and a time for questions, and, of course, refreshments! Generally, there is a main presenter, however, the entire team is available at each meeting so the inquirer may receive several perspectives on living our Faith.
The following websites are very helpful for those considering the Catholic Faith, those returning, or those already in the RCIA:
- Catholics Come Home (For returning Catholics, non-Catholics, Practicing Catholics)
- Faith Field Guide (A Field Guide for Catechumens and Candidates)
- The New American Bible
- Catechism of the Catholic Church Simplified
- LifeTeen (For Catholic Teenagers)
The RCIA is not a program or a class, but a spiritual journey, a “coming home” to the Father who loves each one of us intimately and unconditionally.
Remaining meeting dates for the spring are scheduled as follows:
- Mystagogia 10:00 a.m. Basement of Parish Center - May 1, 15, 22, June 5
- Rite of Commissioning – Trinity Sunday, June 19
Occasionally a work schedule may interfere with attendance. At that time the team saves the information for the inquirer and attempts to respond to any needs the inquirer may have as a result of missing that particular session.
Sponsors
A few months after beginning the RCIA process, each inquirer is assigned a sponsor. This sponsor is not to be confused with a baptismal or confirmation sponsor (though, they often are). The RCIA sponsor is a practicing Catholic, usually a member of this parish, who goes through the sessions and rites (ceremonies) of the process with the inquirer, serving as a friend and mentor.
Regarding those baptized in another faith tradition:
There is only one Baptism of water and the Holy Spirit. Those who have been baptized in any faith with water in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, are not baptized again. Instead, if they decide to join the Catholic Faith, they profess their faith, they are confirmed and they receive Holy Eucharist. We ask that a baptismal certificate be presented some time before the Profession of faith. Reception of the remaining Sacraments of Initiation (Confirmation and Eucharist) usually takes place at the Easter Vigil Mass on Holy Saturday.
For more information and/or to become part of the RCIA either as an inquirer, sponsor, community sharer or a team member, please call: The Parish Center: 856-629-0411 or email: rcia@saint-charles-borromeo.org
Sunday Pre-School
This ministry teaches pre-school children using arts and crafts during the 11AM Mass. For more information, contact Denise Savarese at 856-627-6401.
Children's Liturgy of the Word
Liturgy of the word is offered for 4 year olds through 5th graders during the 9 AM & 11 AM Mass. No sign ups are required. When the Deacon asks for the children to line up – that is all they do. Two leaders take the children out to hear the Word of God in age – appropriate language. The children are brought back to their parents during the Offertory. Adult leaders are always needed. If interested in helping out or for more information, contact Anne Marie Burke, aburke63@verizon.net
Youth Ministry
St. Charles Borromeo Youth Ministry exists to affirm, empower and educate our youth to become active members of the church through a personal discovery of the faith, expressed in their service to the community. We look to create a safe, Catholic environment where fellowship and stewardship will be nurtured. Young men and women of any age are welcome. Contact Jojo Jordan at 856-629-0411 or e-mail at music@saint-charles-borromeo.org