Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults

Interested in becoming a Catholic?

RCIA is a process of study, exploration, faith-sharing, and faith formation with specific liturgical rites for seekers and inquirers.   The Christian Initiation of Adults

  Our next RCIA cycle has begun, but weekly we are still accepting new inquiries and those who wish to sit in; so "Come and See"! You are most welcome and we hope to see you here!

Why become Catholic?

  Every year hundreds of people decide to become Catholic, and each one has their own special story. Each is drawn to the Church by different experiences and circumstances.

  St Augustine, a great Saint of the Church, said, "Our hearts are restless, O Lord, until they rest in you." The desire for God is written in the human heart, because humankind is created by God and for God; and God never ceases to draw all humanity to himself. Only in God will we find the truth and happiness we long for.

  The journey towards God is found through Jesus Christ. He is "God-with-us," God in the flesh. He reveals God to us: "To see me is to see the Father" (Jn 14:9). The Church is Jesus' own Body. It is the place where God and humanity meet.

 How do I become Catholic?

   The Catholic Church has a special way of initiating adults into the Catholic faith. It is called the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA). It is a period of Christian formation offered to those seeking to become Catholic. The RCIA may also be referred to as the Catechumenate, highlighting its roots in the Christian formation of the early Church. The Rite encompasses all aspects of the Christian life.

   The RCIA takes place within the parish community so you are able to share in the life of the Church expressed in a local faith community. it offers a way to grow in knowledge of Jesus Christ and the Catholic faith in company with others on a similar journey.

What is RCIA? 

  The RCIA is for all those seeking to become members of the Catholic Church. Children over the age of seven years and teenagers are supported through an adapted form of the Rite.

  The RCIA is offered to those who have never been baptized in any Christian church but may also benefit those already baptized who desire to become Catholic. The non-baptized who are suitably prepared are joyfully received into the Catholic Church by the reception of the three Sacraments of Initiation, namely, Baptism, Confirmation and the Most Holy Eucharist. This takes place at the Easter Vigil here at St Joseph's.

  Those already baptized in another Christian church, following a period of preparation, are welcomed into full communion with the Catholic Church by the reception of the Sacraments of Confirmation and the Most Holy Eucharist. 

 Please call our office for the schedule of the upcoming RCIA classes. 231-421-7310