The implementation of the rite of Christian initiation of adults (RCIA) in the Maltese Church : cultural and ecclesiological considerations

Abstract

The Second Vatican Council (VCII) called for a restoration of the adult catechumenate. After a process of theological research and pastoral adaptations, the Rite of Christian Initiation of the Adults was promulgated on the Epiphany of 1972. Far from being a mere invention, the RCIA was an adaptation of the ancient practice of the catechumenate, which had lost its importance during the course of time. Fifty years after its promulgation, this rite has proved to be fruitful and effective, yet there are certain dioceses that are still struggling to fully implement the RCIA. This dissertation, after presenting a historical and theological analysis of the RCIA, and after outlining four ecclesiological considerations of this rite, studies the challenges, opportunities and effectiveness of the RCIA in two different realities of the Church, that of the United States and that of Italy. The final part of this dissertation focuses on the local reality, with the aim of providing practical suggestions on the way forward for a better implementation of the RCIA.