Becoming Catholic (RCIA)

Welcome to RCIA!

We are happy that you are interested in learning more about becoming Catholic. We are available to answer any questions you have as you begin this spiritual process of conversion.

What is RCIA?

The Rite of the Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the conversion process by which non-baptized adults (catechumens) and baptized Christians (candidates) are fully initiated into the Catholic Church. RCIA is an opportunity for people to learn about the doctrine of the Catholic faith and enter into full communion with the Catholic Church.

Who is RCIA for?

RCIA is for adults who are interested in becoming fully initiated into the Catholic Church. RCIA is for baptized Catholics who have not received the Eucharist (First Communion) and Confirmation. RCIA is also for any baptized Christian who is seeking full communion with the Catholic Church. To become Catholic, baptized Christians make a Profession of Faith in the Catholic Church and celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation and the Eucharist. RCIA is also for anyone who is not baptized and would like to become Catholic. At the Easter Vigil, non baptized adults celebrate all three Sacraments of initiation which are Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist.

How long is RCIA?

St. Monica RCIA begins in August and ends in April. RCIA is a process marked by different stages and rituals. RCIA begins with a period of inquiry. During inquiry, people who are interested in knowing more about the Catholic Church are invited to ask any questions they have about the Catholic faith. Inquiry is followed by a series of classes which begin in September and end in April after the Easter Vigil.

When does RCIA begin for 2011-2012?

Inquiry will be held on Sunday evenings from 6:30 – 8 p.m. in Room 217 on August 7, 14, 21, 28, September 4, and September 11. If inquirers are ready to move on, RCIA sessions will start on Tuesday evenings beginning September 20. The sessions will be from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. in Room 109. Dinner starts at 7 p.m. For a more detailed calendar please see below.

Who teaches RCIA?

The classes are taught by our pastor and our associate pastor. We also bring in different speakers throughout the year to address different topics.

What is an RCIA sponsor and do I need one?

An RCIA sponsor is an active Catholic willing to be a companion for someone who is going through the RCIA process. The Sponsor should be someone who will be present as much as they can for the RCIA sessions, Rituals and the Easter Vigil.

What are the requirements to be a Sponsor?

A Sponsor should be a fully initiated Catholic who has received Baptism, Eucharist, Confirmation. The Sponsor should also be someone other than the candidate or catechumen's parent. If the Sponsor is married, the sponsor must be married in the Catholic Church.

Registration for the 2011-2012 year

RCIA Registration Form

Sponsor Registration Form

RCIA 2011-2012 Calendar

Profession of Faith Form for Children

For more information on RCIA or on how to become a sponsor or core team leader, please contact Mariangela Byrne at (214) 357-8549 or by email at .