Small beginnings in Little Falls leading to big things for Church

Last year, parishes in Herkimer and Little Falls initiated a Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) program for four people who were joining the Catholic Church. Within a short time, 14 people had been enrolled.

The success of the fledgling program is dependent upon "style and process," said Rev. Anthony Ligato, pastor of Holy Family parish in Little Falls and Ss. Anthony and Joseph in Herkimer.

The program began with a routine event: registration of children for the religious education program at Holy Family. Lori Casullo, coordinator of faith formation for grades 1-6, said, "Four parents came forward, mentioning that they were considering becoming Catholic."

She relayed their interest to Father Ligato, and he suggested starting an RCIA program.

"The first thing we did was to form a team from both parishes that includes those interested in this ministry," he said. The ten-member team is made up of two deacons, staff members and parishioners. "We decided to take a non-academic approach because we wanted to offer an atmosphere where inquirers and catechumens could spiritually bond with each other while walking their journey of faith. Our program is a catechism-based one."

Mrs. Casullo added, "Each time they meet, it is with a different member of the parish team. Offering a new person to lead the format each week keeps the interest level up for the participants."

The Catholics-to-be review the readings for each Sunday Mass, which, Father Ligato said, allows them to become familiar with Scripture and understand its dynamic role in the weekly liturgy.

"The intent here is not to focus only on what is in the readings, but [also] on how Catholics understand the message and how we live it in our daily lives," he noted.

The RCIA program extends beyond the participants to include the entire parish through community participation and celebration of the sacraments, Father Ligato said.

"My hope is that our community will come to understand more fully that the life of the Church is directly tied into our liturgies and celebration of the sacraments," he explained. "I hope for this community to become more involved in evangelization of themselves and others. RCIA helps with that process."

(1/20/05)