The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, or "RCIA", is a program for adults who are interested in becoming Catholics. It consists of several months of instruction in the teachings, beliefs, customs and practices of the Catholic faith. Those who complete the process are baptized and/or confirmed, and receive their First Communion at Easter. There is no cost for this program, and all materials are provided by the parish.

Each liturgical year individuals choose to join the Catholic Faith. Some of these individuals prayerfully enter this process called the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) because their spouses or fiancés are Catholic. Others love the rich traditions and rites of our Church, and still others have been inspired by the lives of their friends or co-workers who are living examples of the teachings of Jesus Christ.

Many people are searching for spiritual meaning and a deeper relationship with God. Often they feel drawn to the Catholic faith. The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is a process by which adults explore the Catholic faith and ordinarily become members of the Church.

Do you or anyone you know fall into one of these categories?

• A person who is seeking full communion in the catholic Church or renewal of a faith life that has been dormant for years.
• A person who has never been baptized in another faith.
• A person who has been baptized in the Catholic Church and never received the sacraments of Holy Communion or Confirmation or who has stopped practicing the Catholic faith and wishes to begin again.
• Someone who is planning marriage to a Catholic and is considering joining the Catholic Church to bring unity to the marriages.
• A spouse who desires to create harmony in the family by becoming a Catholic.

If you, or someone you know, would like to get information regarding becoming Catholic, please call the Parish Rectory Office at 708-422-2400.