Becoming Catholic is an amazing, life-changing journey. Much more than a series of educational classes, it moves through a process of deep discernment and formation. God offers each of us the grace of desiring and seeking love, truth, and meaning. He is the initiator and giver of all faith, who inspires and guides us on our journey. Throughout the process of initiation into the Catholic Church, the people of God accompany those seeking full initiation step-by-step, to support, guide, and help them discern God’s call in their life.
Becoming Catholic begins with Inquiry. We invite you to take the first step in the process of becoming Catholic -- having a simple conversation with Fr. Rick. It is never too early to reach out or to begin asking questions. We know that becoming Catholic is not a decision to take lightly or one to be made in a day, but rather a discernment that begins with conversation, reflection, and prayer. Fr. Rick can answer your questions about Catholic teaching and beliefs, how we worship and how we celebrate and live our faith in the modern world.
The process the Church uses for the wonderful journey is the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA). It is a year-long personal faith journey that usually begins in September with a period of inquiry. During this time, inquiring people are given the opportunity to learn more about Catholicism, ask questions and get to know what makes a Catholic a Catholic. During the Period of Inquiry, you would join a small group to discuss the Church’s teachings on Jesus Christ, learn about the Mass and the Sacraments of the Church, talk about the importance of sacred Scripture and Tradition and the importance of prayer in your daily life.
After these Inquiry sessions, people who feel they have an interest in becoming Catholic can continue in the RCIA process beyond the Period of Inquiry, receiving instruction in the basics of our faith. There's no pressure to continue. As the RCIA journey continues, participants have the opportunity to discern whether or not they want to receive the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist). Those who wish to receive the Sacraments of Initiation receive further formation in preparation for the Sacraments at Easter.
In the meantime, click on the video series below called SYMOBLON – THE CATHOLIC FAITH EXPLAINED produced by the Augustine Institute. This beautifully produced video series proclaims the truth and beauty of the Catholic faith in a way that meets people where they are at, captivates their hearts and minds for Christ and His Church and forms them with a Catholic worldview that prepares them to engage the many cultural influences today that undermine Christian living.”
For more information or to inquire about becoming Catholic, please contact:
Fr. Ricardo Davis
Pastor
289-554-0556 ext 8
[email protected]
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