Each year thousands of adults choose to become Catholics. They come from different backgrounds for different reasons:
- Some are already Christians from other traditions attracted by the teaching of the Catholic Church and by the example of individual Catholics they know.
- Some are from another faith or no faith at all, who have heard about Jesus, His claim to forgive sin and His promise of eternal life.
- Some are non-Catholics who have been coming regularly to Mass for years with their Catholic relatives. They wish now to become full members of the Church.
- Some have had no previous contact with the Church at all but have this inner calling to discover the truth about the most important questions of life.
- Some were baptised as Catholics but missed out on the other sacraments as children.
If any of the above situations applies to you, then the RCIA programme is worth exploring.
May they all be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you… so that the world may believe,
John 17:21
RCIA: The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults
Most Catholics enter the Church through baptism as infants and receive the Eucharist and Confirmation when young. However, there are many people who become Catholics, or receive the sacraments they have previously missed, later in life. The RCIA programme is the preparation for this.
The Format
People thinking about becoming Catholic can feel nervous. This is one of the most important decisions you can make, but you are not alone. Thousands of people across the country are doing the same thing and you will be supported at each stage of your journey in faith.
The Timetable
Starting at a time convenient for the person enquiring, you will meet one weekday in the morning, afternoon or evening (with breaks) over several months with the priest or a catechist. Each week we look at an aspect of our faith, e.g. the existence of God, who Jesus really is, what we do at Mass, how being a Catholic affects our daily life. This is usually done in an individual setting, meaning the programme and topics looked at can be individually tailored to the person.
You are not rushed into making a decision. You are the person who decides at the time right for you. If you decide to proceed, you will normally be baptised (if you are not a Christian already) and be confirmed and make your First Holy Communion or, if you are already baptised in another Christian denomination, you will be received into full communion with the Catholic Church, be confirmed and make your First Holy Communion.
Can anyone become a Catholic?
Yes. All that is required is belief in God and the teachings of the Catholic Church founded by Jesus Christ. This should be borne out in our daily lives, e.g. by prayer, coming to Mass on Sundays, living moral lives of truth and charity. If this isn’t entirely the case currently, then the RCIA programme is the opportunity to investigate further. All we ask is a willingness to explore in good faith and openness the call of Jesus to become more faithfully His disciple. There are lots of misunderstandings about what the Catholic Church actually believes and why. This is your chance to find out for yourself.
I was brought up as a Christian in another denomination. Do I have to reject my past life?
No – if it isn’t contrary to our faith and morals. God has brought you to this point where you are considering becoming a Catholic. We rejoice in the goodness and truth you have experienced elsewhere. We willingly admit that elements of the truth are found amongst other Christians, but the fullness of truth is found in the Catholic Church. You are simply asked to state your belief in the teaching of Jesus and His Church.
What do I do next?
Contact the parish priest through the form provided on this website and he will look to make an appointment with you to discuss your situation, enquiry and how best to proceed.
Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Loughborough 