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Or simply wanting to learn more about Catholicism? Welcome! You've come to the right place. Take a deep breath; we are happy you are here. You probably have some questions, and you're not alone! Check out these common questions: How do I find out about Catholicism? What if I think that I want to become Catholic? We would love to help you begin the process! You are invited to begin a process called the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (sometimes called RCIA or simply Christian initiation.) In the RCIA, adults or children who have reached the age of reason (about 7 years old) learn about the teachings of Jesus as the Catholic Church has handed them on and put these teachings into practice by living as part of the Catholic community, serving others and praying. Your local parish will have more information for you on the specifics of the RCIA process. What if I'm not sure I want to become Catholic or what if I change my mind? You do not make any commitment or obligation by inquiring about Catholicism or beginning the Christian initiation process. We want you to take the time you need as you think about becoming Catholic and we respect your decision to stop or to say, "not right now" at any time. While we love being Catholic and hope that others will want to become Catholic also, we do not exert pressure on anyone to do so. Our hope would be that at the very least, you would come to a greater appreciation of Catholic beliefs and practices. What does initiation into the Catholic Church entail? If you have not been baptized, the Christian initiation process prepares you to become a Catholic Christian by celebrating what we call the Sacraments of Christian initiation: Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist or Holy Communion. If you have been baptized in another ecclesial community or Christian church, the initiation process prepares you to enter into full communion with the Catholic Church by celebrating the Sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist or Holy Communion. Participants in the initiation process generally meet once or twice each week, including part of the Mass on Sunday, but each parish initiation schedule varies. How long does it take to become a Catholic? While becoming Catholic is a personal journey and the time frame can vary from individual to individual, the Christian initiation process typically lasts for several months or sometimes longer in order to prepare to take this step. The initiation of individuals who are ready to become new members of the Catholic Church may take place at Easter (in March or April) or at other times throughout the year. What do I do first? Let us know you are interested by contacting your local parish (parishes in the Diocese of Duluth) or us here at the diocese. We look forward to connecting with you, and we welcome you on this journey! |
Contact: Grace Woitalla Annette Merritt Diocese of Duluth |
