What is RCIA?
The Catholic Church always welcomes new members into its community. Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the present-day process by which people enter into the faith. RCIA is a process in which interested men and women can explore Catholicism, and make a decision to become a Catholic over a period of months.
Who can apply?
Any adult, 18 years and older, who is unbaptized or a baptized Christian of another faith, may participate in the RCIA process.
What is the process?
- The process begins with several weeks of inquiry and instruction, during which interested individuals can learn the core beliefs of the Catholic Church, sacraments and rituals, and basic church history. This is a time when inquirers ask a lot of questions of the RCIA team members and class speakers. After this initial period, participants are asked to affirm their decision to continue the conversion process.
- Next is an extended period of weekly classes and other activities designed to involve participants in the church community. This period allows participants the opportunity to examine their commitment to the process through regular attendance at classes and an encouraged participation in community service events and involvement in other parish activities.
- For those committed, the next step is an intense period of prayer and reflection leading to the sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation.
- The process is completed in a period of reflection and prayer during which the newly baptized and/or confirmed Catholics can further their faith formation.
Already baptized in the Catholic Faith?
If you are an adult and have already been baptized in the Catholic faith, but have yet to receive the sacraments of Confirmation and Holy Eucharist please contact Deacon Charles Iner ,770-957-5441 ext.201 or ciner@stjamesapostle.com.
I’m engaged to marry a Catholic and we want to be married in the Catholic church. What should I do?
We encourage your interest in marrying in the church, but discourage entry into the RCIA process for the sole purpose of marriage in the Church. Since initiation into the faith is a long-term commitment, we suggest you proceed with the marriage then enter the RCIA process after careful thought and prayer.
What if I’m married civilly, divorced, or divorced and remarried?
If you were married in a civil ceremony or if you are divorced and remarried, the Church may require an annulment or convalidation. Your circumstances must be addressed before beginning RCIA. If you are divorced but not remarried, you are free to begin the RCIA process. An annulment may be required if you later choose to marry in the Catholic Church.
What documents are required for becoming Catholic?
Baptized Christians of another faith will need a copy of their baptismal record. Copies of marriage certificates and decrees of annulment in the Church may be required if appropriate.
What about attendance?
Regular participation is strongly encouraged at all meetings, days of prayer and community service events. Attendance is viewed as a commitment to the process. Please feel free to discuss any attendance conflicts with one of the RCIA team members.
When does the process start?
Those curious about the Catholic faith are encouraged to begin exploring this process whenever they feel so moved. Timing of the process and reception of sacraments is always geared toward your readiness to move forward through the process. The majority of candidates for the sacraments traditionally begin this process in the fall, moving toward receiving the sacraments at Easter, but we welcome you to begin this process at any time.
How can I learn even more?
Contact Deacon Charles Iner ,770-957-5441 ext.201 or ciner@stjamesapostle.com