Gran Couva/Tabaquite RCIA candidates express their joy on the journey

In September 2023 we, the catechists of Gran Couva/ Tabaquite, began our Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) programme. Several adults joined, and it has been our largest since we began our programme many moons ago.

Our theme throughout the years has always been Encountering the Living Christ as each participant is invited and encouraged to seek a personal and real relationship with Him.

The journey is a challenging one. A few, due to personal issues, decided to leave and resume the programme in future. The majority, those who are still here are becoming more aware of Jesus’ presence in their lives, their experiences and in the lives of others.

Like the Samaritan woman, they came, dying of spiritual thirst. They can see physically unlike the blind man but only now have begun to recognise their own spiritual blindness and are now looking forward to the ‘new life’ promised to us through Jesus Christ.

Here are a few personal reflections from our group.

– “I am looking forward to completing this journey of encountering the living Christ as I continue to strengthen my relationship with the Almighty.”

– “Second Sunday of Lent felt like an ordination day and even a day where religious brothers profess their solemn vows standing before the altar, I felt like I saw an image of God, saying to me, ‘my son, your journey will continue from here.’ I am also looking forward to continuing my RCIA journey.”

– “My experience was very peaceful. My heart is filled with joy, and I am quite satisfied with the decision Jesus led me to make. I felt proud when I approached the altar. I am looking forward to completing this journey. I am proud and happy for each of us and welcome the positive changes I am now making in my life.”

– “Today I stood before the altar once again. I bowed and proceeded to sign my name as instructed. I felt honoured to be a part of this, certainly a moment never to forget. Tears rolled down my cheeks with excitement and a sense of accomplishment. As we all signed, I prayed that we will all continue our journey without any problems and doubts. Today was a memorable one.”

– “There are so many emotions as I write that tears are streaming down my face, and I do not know why. I have always had a one-on-one relationship with God, and I heard Him that day say to me ‘You wanted it to be official, well this is it. I am always with you…’  I felt a sense of worthiness. I thank all for the support, the guidance and teachings during this journey with Christ.”

We are continuously awed and humbled by the workings of God in our lives! I would like to thank God for all those He has brought to us and for the lives of all those they will in turn touch. I thank Fr Simon Peter Ango for all his caring and support.

I would also like to thank all catechists who are following the mandate “to go forth and make disciples of all the nations baptising them in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit”…. May the Lord continue to bless and keep you and all your loved ones.

— Maureen Pereira on behalf of Gran/Couva, Tabaquite catechists