Ethan Walker
Becoming Catholic as an adult is a profound and joyous experience. The process is known as the Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA), formerly called the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA). It involves a period of preparation and reflection, where individuals learn about the Catholic faith and decide whether to embrace it. This is followed by receiving the Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Communion or the Eucharist. The process can take different forms and may involve attending classes, watching videos, and participating in prayer groups or ministries. It is a journey of faith that culminates in full communion with the Catholic Church.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Process | Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA), formerly known as Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) |
| Requirements | Desire to enter the Church, living a life of harmony with Church teachings, and receiving the Sacraments of Initiation |
| Sacraments of Initiation | Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Communion/Holy Eucharist |
| Registration | Register with the church and schedule a 30-45 minute intake meeting with religious education staff |
| Classes | Regular commitment to in-person classes, typically held on Monday nights, taught by priests |
| Reading Materials | Bible, Catechism of the Catholic Church, Outlines of Catholic Faith, and articles |
| RCIA/OCIA | Track into the Catholic Church, not a second-class Catholic |
| Mass | Do not receive the Eucharist, ask questions of the priest |
| Preparation | Knowledge of Jesus Christ, consideration of relationship with Jesus, and attraction to the Catholic Church |
| Catechumen | Inquirer becomes a catechumen, reflecting on scriptures, making changes, and considering Catholic Church membership |
| Baptism | Publicly request baptism, recorded as "the elect", and celebrated during the Easter Vigil Liturgy on Holy Saturday |
| Post-Baptism | Formation and education continue with reflection on experiences, scriptures, sacraments, and teachings of the Catholic Church |
| Full Communion | Entrance into the Catholic Church for baptized Christians who are not Roman Catholics, making a profession of faith |
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What You'll Learn
Register your interest and attend an intake meeting
If you are seriously considering becoming Catholic, you should register your interest. This is an important step as it ensures the appropriate paperwork is on file for you. After registering, you will be invited to attend an intake meeting with a member of staff from the Office of Religious Education. This meeting will typically last 30-45 minutes, and books will be distributed during this time. You may also be referred to a priest at this stage.
The intake meeting is a crucial step in your journey towards becoming Catholic. It is an opportunity to ask any questions and to learn more about the process of joining the Catholic Church. You will also be able to find out more about what being Catholic means and what it entails. This meeting is also a chance to discuss your individual circumstances, which will determine the amount and form of preparation required for your conversion.
For those who have already been baptised as Christians but not as Catholics, a baptismal certificate will be required at the intake meeting. This is an important document that confirms your previous baptism. It is also at this meeting that you will be able to express your desire and intention to become a baptised member of the Catholic Church.
The intake meeting is a safe and welcoming space for you to explore your interest in the Catholic faith. It is an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the teachings and practices of the Catholic Church and to decide if this is the right path for you. You will be able to discuss any concerns or questions you may have with knowledgeable and experienced individuals who can provide guidance and support throughout your journey.
After the intake meeting, you will be able to attend classes to learn more about the Catholic faith. These classes are typically held on Monday nights and are taught by priests, covering a range of topics. It is important to commit to attending these in-person classes regularly to ensure you are sufficiently prepared to enter the Catholic Church.
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Prepare by learning about Jesus Christ and the Catholic Church
Preparing to become Catholic as an adult involves learning about Jesus Christ and the Catholic Church. This is a crucial step in your journey towards receiving the sacraments of initiation: baptism, confirmation, and the Holy Eucharist.
The Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA), also known as the Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA), is a formal process designed to help you gain a deeper understanding of the Catholic faith and decide whether to embrace it. During this period, you will have the opportunity to explore your relationship with Jesus Christ and the Catholic Church. This stage, known as the Period of Evangelization and Precatechumenate, can vary in length, depending on your individual journey and spiritual needs. It is a time for reflection, prayer, and spiritual exploration.
As part of the RCIA process, you will be provided with various resources and guidance to enhance your understanding of Catholic teachings and practices. This may include reading materials such as the Bible, Catechism of the Catholic Church, and other relevant articles. You may also have the opportunity to attend classes, typically held on Monday evenings, where priests or other religious educators will address specific topics related to the Catholic faith. These classes offer a structured setting for learning and engaging in discussions within a community of fellow seekers.
Additionally, you are encouraged to attend Mass, which is a central aspect of Catholic worship. By participating in Mass, you will gain a deeper understanding of Catholic rituals and traditions. However, during the Mass, it is important to refrain from receiving the Eucharist, which is the sacred communion rite in the Catholic Church. Receiving the Eucharist signifies a full commitment to the teachings of the Church, and it is important to be prepared for this step when the time comes.
The RCIA process also includes a period known as the catechumenate, during which you will delve deeper into your understanding of God's message in the scriptures. This stage involves reflection on how your life aligns with God's inspiration and the implications of becoming a member of the Catholic Church. It is a time for spiritual growth and discernment, guided by the parish team supporting you on your journey.
Throughout your preparation, remember that becoming Catholic is a profound and joyous experience. Embrace this journey of faith with an open heart, and know that you are joining a long tradition of seekers and believers who have found a spiritual home in the Catholic Church.
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Request baptism and celebrate the Rite of Election
To become a Catholic as an adult, you will need to go through the Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA), formerly known as the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA). This process involves receiving the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Communion.
The first step towards requesting baptism is to register with your local parish and schedule an intake meeting. During this meeting, you will be provided with the necessary reading materials and books. If you have already been baptised, you will need to provide a baptismal certificate.
After the intake meeting, you will participate in a period of catechumenate, which can last for several years or a shorter time, depending on your individual journey and growth in faith. During this time, you will reflect on God's message in the Scriptures and how you can respond through changes in your life.
When you and your priest believe that you are ready to make a faith commitment to Jesus in the Catholic Church, you can request baptism. This request leads to the celebration of the Rite of Election, which is a crucial step in your initiation.
The Rite of Election is a ceremony where the names of all the catechumens (those preparing for baptism) are enrolled. It is usually held on the First Sunday of Lent and is presided over by the Bishop or their delegate. During this rite, the church, represented by the Bishop, acts in God's name to choose and call forth the catechumens.
Before the Rite of Election, you may choose one or two godparents who will accompany and guide you not only during the celebration but also throughout your spiritual journey. Their presence symbolises the Christian community's support and commitment to helping you grow in your faith.
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Receive the sacraments of initiation: baptism, confirmation, and communion
To become Catholic as an adult, you will need to receive the three sacraments of initiation: baptism, confirmation, and communion. This journey can be completed at a rapid or slow pace, but certain essential elements must be included.
Baptism
Baptism is the first sacrament of initiation and is the principal place for the first and fundamental conversion. It pardons all sins, rescues the faithful from the power of darkness, and brings them to the dignity of God's adopted children. It is the sacrament by which one renounces evil and gains salvation. This sacrament is performed by a bishop or priest, who anoints the forehead with holy oil and lays their hands on the recipient's head in prayer and blessing.
Confirmation
Confirmation is the second sacrament of initiation and serves to "confirm" a baptised person in their faith. It fills the faithful with the Holy Spirit and makes them more completely the image of the Lord. This sacrament is also performed by a bishop or priest, who anoints the forehead with holy oil and lays their hands on the recipient's head in prayer and blessing.
Communion
Communion, or the Eucharist, is the third sacrament of initiation and is considered the source and summit of the Christian life. It is a sacred meal in which the priest consecrates bread and wine, which are believed to be transubstantiated into the body and blood of Christ. The congregation then shares in this meal as a memorial of Christ's sacrifice and a reflection of his Last Supper with his disciples.
The sacraments of initiation are typically received through the Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA), formerly known as the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA). This process involves a period of preparation and initiation, followed by a period of reflection and formation.
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Reflect and continue learning about the Catholic faith
Reflecting and continuing to learn about the Catholic faith is an important part of the process of becoming Catholic. This is true both during the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) and after it.
During RCIA, inquirers become catechumens and consider what God is saying to them in the scriptures, what changes they want to make in their lives to respond to God's inspiration, and what membership in the Catholic Church involves. This period can last for several years or a shorter time, depending on the individual's growth in faith, the questions they encounter, and how God leads them.
After RCIA, newly-initiated Catholics are encouraged to become involved with the parish, participate in an adult Bible study or prayer group, join a ministry, and continue learning about the Catholic faith. For example, the Basilica of Saint Mary offers a summer study in June and July on Monday nights.
In addition, there are many resources available for those who want to learn more about the Catholic faith. The Catholic Online School (COS) offers a free RCIA program with introductory videos, lessons, prayers, scripture readings, discussion questions, and quizzes. The Basilica of Saint Mary also provides necessary reading materials such as the Bible, Catechism of the Catholic Church, Outlines of the Catholic Faith, and articles.
Reflecting and continuing to learn about the Catholic faith is a lifelong journey that begins with RCIA and continues through involvement in the parish and the use of educational resources.
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Frequently asked questions
The process is called the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA), sometimes called the Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA). It involves a period of preparation where you learn about the Catholic faith and decide whether to embrace it. This is followed by a formal rite of reception into the order of catechumens, where you express your desire to become a baptised member of the Catholic Church. The next step is the catechumenate, which can last for several years or a shorter time, depending on your personal growth and journey. During this time, you'll reflect on the scriptures and how you will serve Christ. When you're ready, you'll request baptism and celebrate the Rite of Election, receiving the sacraments of baptism, confirmation, and Holy Communion.
RCIA and OCIA are essentially the same process but with different names. OCIA is the updated name for the process formerly known as RCIA.
The Sacraments of Initiation are the three sacraments that bring a person into full communion with the Catholic Church: baptism, confirmation, and the Holy Eucharist (also known as Holy Communion).
