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1. Persons who have never been baptized.
2. Persons baptized in another Christian tradition who desire to become Catholic.
3. Persons baptized Catholic in need of First Communion/or Confirmation
4. Persons interested in learning about the Catholic Church.
How do I become a member of the Catholic Church?
The Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults
Each year we welcome a number of new people into the Catholic Church through the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA). RCIA is the process established by the universal Church for individuals to become Catholic and receive the sacraments of initiation – Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist. This initiation process also involves a parish community experiencing a renewal in faith as it prepares and welcomes new members into the Church. The Rite speaks of conversion as a “spiritual journey.” Centered on fostering a deep relationship with Jesus and the Church he founded, this journey takes place through distinct stages over a period of time suitable to bring about a thorough catechesis, significant experience with the parish community, and commitment to the liturgical and moral life of the Catholic faithful.
The
RCIA process is a restoration of the ancient catechumenate, arising within
the first three centuries following the era of the apostles. It was the
early Church’s way of Christianizing the pagan Roman Empire. The Second
Vatican Council called for the restoration and use of this venerable and
powerful method of initiation for the worldwide Church.
Today’s RCIA process combines weekly classes, reading assignments, scripture discussion, sacramental preparation and celebration of certain Rites which transform the inquirer through the various stages of the process. While everyone participates in these classes as a group, it is recognized that the RCIA process is an individual and personal journey. Every effort is made to insure that the needs of each individual are met
Here at Blessed Sacrament, our sessions are September
thru the Easter Season.