Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is a process by which non-baptized and baptized persons from non-Catholic traditions enter the Catholic Church. These men and women are guided as they are gradually introduced to the Catholic way of life. It includes several stages marked by study, prayer and rites at Mass. Participants experience a process of conversion as they study the Gospel, profess faith in Jesus and the Catholic Church, and receive the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist. The RCIA process follows the ancient practice of the Church and was restored by the Second Vatican Council as the normal way adults prepare for baptism. In 1974 the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults was formally approved for use in the United States.
The RCIA process is a series of steps, marked by liturgical rites with the whole community as the candidates start on their journey and join us in continuing conversion in faith and discipleship. The RCIA respects the spiritual needs of each person, whether baptized or unbaptized, catechized or uncatechized, or mature, practicing Christians from other faith traditions.
Is R.C.I.A. for YOU?
You are welcome to be part of RCIA if:
- You have no faith tradition or are coming from another tradition and you want to know more about the Catholic faith.
- You want to be received into the Catholic faith.
- You are baptized but have been distant from the faith or have not received Confirmation or Eucharist.
- You are a confirmed Catholic who is willing to sponsor a person who is inquiring and you are willing to walk on a journey of faith with them.