Becoming a Catholic/RCIA

Becoming a Catholic/RCIA

Fill out our interest form at the bottom of the page, and the RCIA Coordinator will contact you with more information.  We’re glad you’re here!

This process is intended for:

  • any adult not yet baptized who wishes to become Catholic
  • any adult baptized in another Christian church who wishes to become Catholic
  • any adult baptized in the Catholic Church, but not raised in the faith, who wishes complete Initiation (Confirmation, First Eucharist)

Preparation for children and youth ages seven through eighteen is designed for each individual, with group and family experiences. Initiation for these children and youth follows the principles of the adult initiation process rather than those for infant baptism.


Stages of RCIA Process

The RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation) Process has four stages:

  • Inquiry Stage: A no-obligation, “try it and see” stage; here, those interested explore their life’s journey, and how God has been working in their lives leading up to this point. Classes meet once a week, designed around one’s schedule. Additional topics include Our Lifelong Journey, The Bible, Who is Jesus for me?, Created by God, and others.

Once a person decides that they would like to continue with the process, they are welcomed into the community at one of the Masses on the weekend, and from there they begin to learn what we believe as Catholics:

  • The Catechumenate: This second stage begins the formal period of preparation, and those interested are known as Catechumens (non-baptized) or Candidates (Baptized). The group meets at one of the weekend Masses to listen to the Scriptures, discern how God is moving in their lives, and discuss a specific topic related to the Catholic faith.
  • Purification & Enlightenment: The group is welcomed by the Archbishop or Bishop, and sent forth to continue this intense period of reflection. Usually, during the Lenten Season, the group (along with the entire parish community) examines how they are living their lives for Christ.

Initiation normally takes place at the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday.

  • Mystagogia: The newly initiated begin to “live the mystery,” exploring how God continues to move in their lives

 
 

 

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