The Rite of Acceptance for children of catechetical age ends as it did for adults: intercessions followed by a “Prayer over the Children.” RCIA 276 gives brief rubrics:
After the prayer the children and the community are dismissed and a suitable song concludes the celebration. But if for some reason the eucharist is to be celebrated (see RCIA 261), the children are dismissed beforehand.
Just a few notes:
– The intercessions are specific, not general. This is true for most of the catechumenate rites.
– Also note the prescription for a closing song–not prescribed for the regular celebration of Mass, as you all know.
Next up: the optional Rite of Election.
