Discover Catholicism (RCIA)

I’m not Roman Catholic, but I’d like to learn more
Some of us are first drawn to the Roman Catholic Church through the good example we witness in a family member, friend or coworker. Others may have experience in another faith, which has lead them to discover the riches of the Catholic Church. Some may be attracted to the beauty of Catholic worship, and still others may be interested in Catholic doctrine, without ever having set foot in a church.

We are all on a journey of faith, and if your journey is moving you to learn more about the Catholic faith, you are invited to join the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA).

Is the RCIA for me?
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults seeks to prepare and form in faith adults who are in three basic categories: 1) those who have never been baptized; 2) those who have been baptized in another faith tradition; and 3) those who have been baptized Catholic, but are lacking basic faith formation and/or have not received first sacraments.

What about my child(ren)?
Unbaptized children who have passed their 7th birthday are also received through the RCIA, as adapted for children. For more information about this contact [email protected].

If I decide to become Catholic, how does that work?
The RCIA is an opportunity to learn about the Catholic faith, share your faith journey with others in a safe, friendly environment, and to experience life in the Church community. Our program is designed to prepare adults to enter into the Catholic Church, if they desire, in 8-9 months, beginning in September, and ending at the following Easter time. Joining the RCIA is NOT a commitment to join the Catholic Church. It is up to each individual to decide if they are being called to the Catholic Church during the RCIA process.

What happens in the RCIA?
We meet weekly for prayer, instruction, discussion and fellowship. Becoming Catholic consists of four periods of formation which are marked by rituals that celebrate what has been completed and invite a person into the next phase. of preparation.

Inquiry: This is the first part of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults wherein participants
come with their questions, and the RCIA team answers them in an unstructured, casual environment.

The Catechumenate: This period marks the longest of the RCIA. This period focuses on
instruction, faith sharing, prayer and involvement in Catholic life—ultimately fostering a participant’s ability to discern if he/she is being called to become Catholic.

Purification and Enlightenment: Coinciding with the liturgical season of Lent, those who have discerned that they are going forward with their preparation to enter the Catholic Church participate with the entire faith community in this time of prayer, introspection and reconciling their hearts to Christ in preparation for Easter.

Mystagogy: After having entered the Church, new Catholics (neophytes) enter into full
participation in the life of the Church and its Holy Sacraments. This period celebrates the beginning of a new life in the Church, and encourages meditation on the Gospel, participation in the life of the Church, and discipleship.