Becoming Catholic

Sacrament of Christian Initiation

‘I would like to become a Catholic’

‘I am already baptised in another Christian Church, but I wish to become a Catholic’

‘I am interested in what’s involved in becoming a Catholic, but I am not ready to take the step yet.’

Have you had a question like this in your mind for a while?  Wonderful! 

We welcome your inquiry and would love to know more about you, your story and the events that have led to your interest in the Catholic Church.

Becoming a Catholic involves a process of initiation which goes by the name of Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (often referred to as “R.C.I.A.”).  Typically, this process can take 6 -12 months, however it can be shorter or longer depending on a number of factors.  God calls each person in a unique way, and we tailor the process as we listen to how God is leading each person.

The RCIA program involves four stages of formation.  The transition from one stage to another is marked by a public ritual.

So to get started, please make an initial appointment with the Parish Priest to talk a bit about your desire to be a Catholic. After this initial conversation, and with the necessary motivations for reception, you begin a programme of formation into the Catholic faith.

Reception

Baptism is celebrated only once in a person’s life.  If a baptised Christian from another denomination wishes to become a Catholic, he or she is not re-baptised but rather is received into communion with the Catholic Church through a simple ceremony of commitment, followed by the sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist.