The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the process by which those who wish to join the Catholic faith community are welcomed and introduced to the beliefs and practices of the Church.

For those not yet baptized, this process leads to the Easter Vigil where they receive the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist.  Those who have been previously baptized in another Christian tradition are invited to participate fully in the Church through the sacraments of Confirmation, Eucharist and Reconciliation.

The full RCIA process consists of four periods of formation:

1. Inquiry (Sept – Oct): an initial stage of discernment where candidates find out about Jesus, Christianity and the Catholic Church.
2. Catechesis (Nov – Feb):  a time when Catechumens explore the faith further, in harmony with the Sunday liturgy, and learn how to live as a Christian.
3. Purification & Enlightenment (Feb – Mar/April):  a final period of preparation for the initiation sacraments that will be received at Easter.  This period coincides with the season of Lent.
4. Mystagogia (April/May – June): formation and education continue as the new Catholics reflect on and deepen their experience of the sacraments received at Easter.  Transitioning into the responsibilities of fully living the Catholic faith is also an integral part of this period, incorporating the spiritual commitments into everyday life.  The Mass and the Eucharist are the “source and summit” of the Christian life in the Catholic Church and this period is designed to help the new Catholics understand, appreciate and live more deeply this center of Catholicism. 

If you, or someone you know, are seeking a closer relationship with God and want to become a member of the Catholic Church, please complete the Contact Information Form by clicking the button below to begin the Inquiry period of formation.  The Sacramental Coordinator, or a priest will then reach out to you.  Alternatively, you may contact the Parish Office directly at 403-251-3381.

RCIA program sessions begin in early October each year.