RCIA Overview

Baptism, Confirmation and First Communion are the rites of entry into the Catholic Christian community.  For those whose adult faith journey brings them to Christ, the Catholic Church recommends a significant period of exploration, study and prayer prior to their intiation. 

Our faith demands a mature commitment to a life centered in the good news of Jesus Christ and the mystery of Christ's presence in the Eucharist. 

Our candidates are of all ages and backgrounds. Some are not baptized. Some were baptized in other Christian denominations. Some were baptized in the Catholic Church but have not celebrated Confirmation or First Communion. 

Children ages seven and up who have not been baptized prepare for full initiation in the RCIA.  This means that they will be baptized, confirmed and celebrate First Communion at the next Easter Vigil.  Their preparation is suitable to their age. 

The RCIA process can be tailored to the needs and experience of candidates from different backgrounds. Are you new to the Church, or have you been attending Mass for quite some time with a spouse or friend?  Have you engaged in significant study of religions, including Christianity, or is this your first experience of a faith community? 

The "norm" for the RCIA process is preparing an unbaptized candidate for full initiation into the Church. 

However, baptized Christians from other denominations (except for the Orthodox Churches) may also participate in the RCIA, as well as baptized Catholics over the age of ten who have not celebrated First Communion. 

We will try to listen to you and meet you where you are on your  journey.