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RCIA
(The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) - Becoming a Catholic

RCIA is designed for Adults who after hearing the mystery of Christ proclaimed, consciously and freely seek the living God.   They start their journey towards faith and conversion as the Holy Spirit opens their hearts.

What Is RCIA in the Catholic Church?

RCIA is the official process by which the Catholic Church welcomes and forms adults who are seeking to become fully initiated members of the Church. It is not just an educational program—it is a journey of conversion and discipleship, modeled on how the early Church welcomed new Christians.

Who Is RCIA For?

RCIA is for three main groups:

  1. Catechumens – Those who have never been baptized.

  2. Candidates – Those who were baptized in another Christian denomination and now seek full communion with the Catholic Church.

  3. Baptized but Uncatechized Catholics – Those baptized Catholic but who never received proper religious formation or the Sacraments of Eucharist and Confirmation.

Spiritual Meaning

RCIA is not just learning "about" the faith—it is about:

  • Conversion of heart

  • A personal relationship with Jesus Christ

  • Becoming part of the Body of Christ, the Church

  • Living a life of grace, sacrament, prayer, and service

The Purpose of RCIA

The goal of RCIA is to help a person:

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  • Encounter Jesus Christ personally.

  • Learn and embrace the Catholic faith and way of life.

  • Be fully initiated into the Church through the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist.

The Stages of RCIA (in light of Catholic faith)

1. Period of Evangelization and Inquiry

  • A time to ask questions and explore the basics of Christianity and Catholic belief.

  • The Church respects individual freedom—no pressure to commit.

2. Rite of Acceptance into the Order of Catechumens

  • A formal ceremony where the inquirer becomes a catechumen (if unbaptized) or a candidate (if baptized).

  • The Church acknowledges their desire to follow Christ more deeply.

3. Period of the Catechumenate

  • Ongoing formation through:

    • Scripture

    • Church teachings (doctrine, sacraments, morality, prayer)

    • Participation in the liturgy and parish life

  • Catechumens begin to form a Christian conscience and relationship with Christ.

4. Rite of Election (First Sunday of Lent)

  • Catechumens are presented to the bishop and become the Elect, chosen by God and the Church.

  • Candidates also make a formal step forward in their journey.

  • Begins a more intense period of spiritual preparation.

5. Period of Purification and Enlightenment (Lent)

  • A time of deep prayer and interior conversion.

  • Includes the Scrutinies—special prayers for spiritual healing and strength.

  • Catechumens prepare to receive the sacraments at Easter.

6. Easter Vigil: Sacraments of Initiation

  • The high point of RCIA.

  • The unbaptized are baptized, confirmed, and receive the Eucharist.

  • Baptized candidates are confirmed and receive the Eucharist.

  • They become full members of the Catholic Church.

7. Mystagogy (Post-Easter)

  • The newly initiated (called neophytes) continue growing in their faith.

  • They reflect on their experiences of the sacraments and deepen their understanding of the mysteries of the Church

Would you like information about how to join RCIA, what to expect in classes, or resources for RCIA sponsors or participants?
This program will start on 4 September, 2025 at 7.00 pm in the Mary McKillop Meeting Room which is located in the Parish House.
If you are thinking of becoming a Catholic or know someone who is wondering how to go about it , please contact Fr. Luciano, Fr. Luan or Trish Spiteri on (03) 94652180.  Email pastoralworkerlalor@cam.org.au
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