The RCIA - Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults - is a program of instruction and formation in the Catholic Faith for the following individuals:

- Those who are at least 18 years of age who have never received the sacrament of Baptism.

- Those who were Baptized in the Catholic Church but never completed their sacraments of initiation (Holy Eucharist and Confirmation).

- Those who wish to become Catholic but are currently members of another Christian community, or are not members of any Church.

In addition to instruction in the Catholic faith, participants are encouraged to grow spiritually through prayer, participation in the Sunday worship of the Church, and rites that will prepare the individual for full initiation. At St. James parish the program begins in mid-September and runs through mid-April. The class gathers every Tuesday evening, beginning at 7:30. Those completing the program will be received into full communion with the Catholic Church at the Easter Vigil Mass, the night before Easter Sunday. There is also a separate program - RCIT- for individuals under the age of 18, similar to the RCIA. It meets on Thursday evenings from 7PM - 8PM. If you have any questions and would like to talk to one of the instructors please call: Deacon Art Weiner (RCIA Coordinator) and
Mrs. Carol-Auer Weiner (845-225-1780)Deacon Scott Bierbaum  and Mrs. Rose Bierbaum (845-225-3947); Bob Baisley (845-225-4680); ; Mrs. Karen Mahon - RCIT Coordinator (845-225-1835).