The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is a program for adults who desire to become fully initiated members of the Catholic Church. The goal of the RCIA process is full, conscious, and active participation in an exciting life with Jesus Christ within His Catholic Church. RCIA helps adults grow in their relationship with God, become familiar with Catholic teachings and practices, get acquainted with the faith community, and get involved in service within the community as whole.

And, if you are a fully initiated Catholic, you can sponsor a RCIA catechumen or candidate.

• Unique to each individual

• Time for asking questions

• Time to intensely examine one's personal relationship with God.  

• Ends when inquirers become firm in their desire for initiation and for the study of Catholic teachings and practices. 

• Begins with the Rite of Acceptance into the Order of Catechumens or, for those who are already baptized, the Rite of Welcoming.

• Time of learning the teachings of the Church and beginning to accept Catholic teachings and practices.

• Sponsors accompany catechumens and candidates on their journey.

• Length of Catechumenate period can vary from person to person. 

• Ends when the catechumens discern that God is calling them to receive the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, First Eucharist, Confirmation); the candidates, when they discern that God is calling them to make profession of faith in the Catholic Church.

• Begins with Rite of Election,

• Catechumens are now called the Elect.

• Time of intense preparation during Lent to celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus at Easter and to receive the Sacraments of Initiation.

• Begins with the reception of the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and First Eucharist during the Easter Season.

• Time of reflection on the commitment made to the Lord, the Church, and the faith community.

• Time of finding a place in the community and getting involved.

Many people who want to join the Catholic Church have already been baptized in another Christian church. They do not need to be baptized again. 

Others may have been baptized in the Catholic Church and need to complete the sacraments of Initiation by receiving First Eucharist and/or Confirmation. Ail will have an opportunity to grow in their relationship with God and team more about the faith before receiving these Sacraments.

Unbaptized persons are known as Catechumens. Those already baptized are called Candidates.

RCIA sessions are held weekly on Sunday after 9:00 a.m. Mass (about 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.)