Becoming Catholic

I'm an adult.  How can I become Catholic? R.C.I.A., or the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, is the way those interested in the Catholic Church learn about the faith and join our family of believers. The process traces its roots back to the earliest days of Christian communities, when all members shared their faith with newcomers as a way of teaching them about the new life in Christ. The RCIA Process is comprised of catechumens, candidates, and sponsors. Catechumens are those who have not been baptized but who want to learn about the Catholic faith. Candidates are those baptized in another faith who wish to become Catholic, as well as those baptized Catholic who have received no other sacraments.  The RCIA process for adults begins with a period of inquiry, giving those interested a chance to pray about and consider committing to the process.  Once committed, catechumens or candidates spend time learning about and immersing themselves in the Catholic faith. The process reaches its climax at the Easter Vigil, celebrated the evening before Easter Sunday.  It is at this celebration that catechumens and candidates receive the sacraments and are fully initiated into the Catholic Church. The RCIA Process is an on-going and year-round process. Anyone can begin at anytime. If you or someone you know is interested in exploring the Catholic way of life, please contact Sr. Betty Gaiss at 517-627-8493.   I have a child who is interested in becoming Catholic?  What do they need to do? The Rite of Christian Initiation Adapted for Children is for children who are 7 years of age or older who wish to become Catholic.  Students spend the year learning about our Catholic faith and growing in their relationship with God.  At Easter Vigil the student will receive one or all the sacraments of initiation: Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation. If you would like more information or have further questions, please contact Ben Pohl at 517-627-8493.