How To Become Catholic
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the process through which the Catholic Church welcomes new adult members. It has its roots in the history of the early church and is designed for adults of other faith backgrounds or those with little or no previous faith experiences.
This journey of faith includes the study of Catholic beliefs, faith sharing, and the study of sacred scripture. Our weekly meetings involve discussion, questions, and teachings. We also encourage those involved to keep a journal of their own faith journey. At St. Margaret Mary Parish this process begins in late September. We meet on Wednesdays in Sacred Heart room B, but will be meeting via zoom during Covid.
As the RCIA process continues, those who feel called to continue participate in the Rite of Acceptance. At one of the weekend liturgies they declare their intent to respond to God’s call and follow the way of Christ.
On the first Sunday of Lent, those who will be called to the Easter Sacraments of Initiation, participate in the Rite of Election. This also occurs at one of the weekend liturgies at St. Margaret Mary. Later, on that same day, they participate in the Rite of Election at the Cathedral and are presented to the Bishop. Here they have the opportunity to meet others involved in the RCIA at other parishes throughout the Diocese.
During Lent these now catechumens and candidates receive special prayers and blessings. They are presented with the Nicene Creed and the Lord’s Prayer. Their preparation intensifies. All of this culminates at the Easter Vigil with their receiving of the Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist.