Becoming A Catholic

THE RCIA JOURNEY

The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults also known as RCIA .

RCIA is the normal way in which adults become full, active, participating members of the Catholic Church.

The goal of the process is “full communion” which means “full active participation” in the Eucharist and in the whole life of the Catholic faith community.

RCIA helps adults to grow in their relationship with God, become familiar with Catholic teachings, come to know the people in the parish community and become involved in service within the community.

ALREADY BAPTISED?

Many persons who want to join the Catholic Church have already been baptized in another Christian Church. They attend the sessions but do not need to be baptized again. They are received into the Catholic church at Easter Vigil. 

FIRST STEP – A PERIOD OF ENQUIRY

The RCIA journey is a period of reflection, prayer, instruction, discernment and formation. Those who begin the journey are encouraged to proceed at their own pace, but, on average, the journey takes about 8-12 months of monthly or fortnightly sessions.

When the enquirer is ready, they are officially introduced to the Parish Community via Rite of Acceptance.

This is a visible sign that they are serious and are ready to go deeper into the journey towards their full initiation at the Easter Vigil.

The Rite of Acceptance is usually held on the 1 or 2 Sunday of Advent.

At the Easter Vigil the Elect or Candidates receive the Sacraments of Baptism (if required), Confirmation and Eucharist at Easter with an ongoing commitment to attendance at Sunday Mass and observance of Catholic teachings and practices.

WHO ELSE IS INVOLVED?

Besides the RCIA Team, the entire parish community who participate in the Sunday Eucharist has a role to play through prayer and welcome. Overseeing it all is our Parish Priest, Fr Shabin together with our RCIA team

consisting of Mirella Pace and Cheryl Sullivan. This year we have been joined by John Samanna from Holy Spirit and St. Anthony’s Parishes.

WHO ARE THE PARISH SPONSORS?

The Sponsors are Catholics, known to you or appointed by Partnership Parishes and they walk with the RCIA candidates on their faith journey. They are there to help, support and encourage you and to provide a tangible link between you and the community. They are companions on your journey.

INQUIRY MEETINGs usually take place end of August/ September

RCIA IS FOR: Adults who are not baptized, Adults baptized in another Christian church and non-practising Catholics wishing to renew faith.

If you would like to know more about the RCIA journey please contact Mirella via Parish Office.