Becoming a Catholic
Becoming Catholic is an amazing, life-changing journey. Much more than a series of educational classes, it moves through a process of deep reflection, discernment and formation. God offers each of us the grace of desiring and seeking love, truth, and meaning. He is the initiator and giver of all faith, who inspires and guides us on our journey. Throughout the process of initiation into the Catholic Church, the people of God accompany those seeking full initiation step-by-step, to support, guide, and help them hear God’s call in their life.
I'm not baptised, but I'm interested in becoming Catholic
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, or RCIA, is an ancient process that was revived in recent years at the Second Vatican Council. The process of RCIA corresponds to the stages of individual faith development and personal conversion. It also involves the deeper conversion of the accompanying Catholic community, who witness and are partaking in the same spiritual journey. To hear and follow God’s voice, those seeking initiation enter the RCIA process with a parish community through prayer and careful listening.
For the unbaptised, this journey may lead to the waters of new life in Baptism, the sealing of the Holy Spirit in Confirmation, and the receiving of the ‘Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity’ of Our Lord Jesus Christ in the Holy Eucharist.
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The journey of each person is unique. The RCIA process respects this, and the rituals reflect it. Your local parish is your starting point to begin this exciting chapter in your faith journey.
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I was baptised in a different Christian tradition or denomination
If you were baptised with water, in the name of God, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, you are a Christian! Depending on your particular background and circumstances, your process of formation and discernment would prepare you for a profession of faith, the sacrament of Confirmation, and reception of the Holy Eucharist. When you make contact with your local parish, you should share your personal experience of Church and faith with them. This will help them determine your next steps towards full initiation.
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I was baptised Catholic and I am interested in full initiation into the Church
If you were already baptised into the Catholic Church, you are a Catholic! Many people find themselves in this situation. Perhaps your parents raised you Catholic, but for some reason, you missed the sacrament of Confirmation. You may have been baptised Catholic but for various reasons were not raised in the Faith. You may have never gone to Mass regularly, attended faith formation, or been prepared for First Communion or Confirmation. When you call your local parish, you should share your personal experience of Church and faith with them. This will help them determine your next steps towards full initiation, making sure that the path you follow is particularly suited to helping you in your journey.
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Speak to Fr. Vincent or Fr. Michael after any of our Sunday or weekday Masses