Becoming Catholic is an amazing, life-changing journey. Much more than a series of educational classes, it moves through a process of deep 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 discern 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 recently 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 partake in the same spiritual journey. In order to hear and follow God’s voice, those seeking initiation enter into RCIA with a parish community through prayer and discernment.
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 partaking of the “Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity” of Our Lord Jesus Christ in Holy Eucharist.
The journey of each person is unique. The RCIA process respects this and the ritual reflects it. Your local parish is your starting point to begin this exciting chapter in your faith journey.
Contact us to discern your next steps.
“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 circumstances, your process of formation and discernment would prepare you for a profession of faith, the sacrament of Confirmation, and reception of Holy Eucharist. When you call Sacred Heart Parish, you should share your personal experience of Church and faith with them. This will help them determine your next steps towards full initiation.
Contact us to discern your next steps.
“I was baptised Catholic and I’m 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 prepared for First Communion or Confirmation. When you call your local parish representative or contact our team, you should share your personal experience of Church and faith with them. This will help them determine your next steps towards full initiation.
Contact us to discern your next steps.
