The Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) is the name for the process of becoming a Christian in the Catholic Church. This involves teachings, classes, a sponsor, liturgical rites, and, at the end of the process, receiving the Sacraments of Baptism, First Communion, and Confirmation. Those who have already been baptized in another Christian denomination often join common sessions with those in the RCIA process, and at the end of your journey (really, just the beginning of a new journey!) receive first Holy Communion and Confirmation.

Contact your local Catholic Church to join the RCIA.

Period of Inquiry

At this stage of the process, you will be able to ask questions, seek clarification, and learn more about our faith. There is no obligation to proceed beyond this point, and everyone is free to choose whether or not they want to continue. This is when the Church is able to gather more information about your particular situation. For example, they will determine if you have already been Baptized and if there are any obstacles that will need to be overcome before you are able to enter the Church. Once the information is gathered and a plan is set for any obstacles, if you desire, then you will move on to the period of the catechumenate.

Catechumenate

At this stage, you will be known as a "Catechumen" - an unbaptized person preparing to enter the Church - or a "Candidate" - someone who is already Baptized, but will be entering into the fullness of the Church. At this point, you will enter into a deeper reflection of the teachings of the Church.

Full Communion

At the Easter Vigil Mass, you will enter into full communion with the Catholic Church. This Mass is the epitome of the entire liturgical year and it is the most beautiful Mass of the year! It is centered around the most fundamental aspects of our Faith - the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. At this Mass, if you have not been Baptized, you will be baptized, washing away the stain of Original Sin and conforming you to Christ. All Catechumens and Candidates will be Confirmed, sealed with the Holy Spirit. Finally, you will receive the Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity of our Lord Jesus Christ in the Eucharist.

Contact your local Catholic Church to join the RCIA