Where do I begin?

Most Catholics are born into Catholic families and gradually come to share in the full sacramental life of the Church. Others, who may have been previously baptized in a non-Catholic Christian church, have become Catholics after making a solemn profession of faith, being confirmed and sharing Eucharist with the Catholic community. And some, never baptized, have been initiated through a process that leads to baptism, confirmation and Eucharist at the Church's annual celebration of Easter. The Catholic Church warmly welcomes new members and tries to provide an appropriate spiritual formation according to each person's needs. The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the Church's way of initiating new members.  

How is the Christian Initiation of Adults Implemented?

Every parish is responsible for designing the formation of candidates for initiation according to the guidelines established by the body of bishops of the universal Catholic Church. The process is concerned with the total formation of the person into believing with the Church community (doctrinal formation), living with the Church community (practical formation), and serving with the Church community (apostolic formation).

Who may attend the RCIA? 

• Persons who have never been baptized as Christians.
• Persons who have been baptized in another Christian faith tradition and are now interested in the Catholic tradition.
• Perons who were baptized in the Catholic tradition but not raised as Catholics.
• Catholics who would like to rejuvenate their faith.

How long does it take to become a Catholic?

The RCIA is not a program. It is a process of preparation for the lifetime commitment that comes with reception into the Church. Consequently, some people will need more time than others to prepare for this. The usual length of preparation is from one to two years. The initiation of new members ordinarily takes place at the Easter Vigil each year.

What does the RCIA involve?

The RCIA generally meets weekly, but each parish RCIA schedule varies according to holidays, parish and community calendars and summer activities. Some do not meet during the summer months. When there are RCIA sessions, those who have chosen to seek full Church membership are presented to the parish community at a Sunday Mass. This and other Sunday rituals mark the spiritual growth of the candidates as well as express the community's joy and concern for them. 

What topics are discussed?

The weekly sessions cover a broad range of topics because our Catholic beliefs encompass the whole fabric of our lives. Material is presented which can help address such questions as:

• Who is Jesus Christ?
• What is the meaning of life and death?
• Why does God love me?
• How can I understand the Bible?
• How can I pray?
• Can I be forgiven?

If I begin, am I obligated to become Catholic?

There is no obligation  to make any kind of commitment nor is there pressure exerted on anyone to become Catholic. We respect the conscience and decision of every inquirer. Because of your association with us we would hope that you would gain a deeper appreciation and understanding of Catholic beliefs and practices.

I think I'd like to begin, but I'm still hesitant.

If there is some concern or reason that you are reluctant to begin the RCIA, please feel free to call the RCIA coordinator for the parish in which you live. That person will be happy to address all of your concerns.  If you don't know your parish, you can search by zip code on our parish page.