Becoming Catholic

All are welcome!

We are glad that you are interested in learning more about the Catholic faith. Over a billion people call the Catholic Church home! For each one, the path to seeking, knowing and becoming Christ is unique. The Church recognizes the importance of this journey;  of opening our hearts to Jesus and the supernatural life with God that we are called to share in through His mercy and grace in the midst of our daily lives.

Where to start
  • One of the best ways is to speak to one of our parish priests or pastoral team members, who will be happy to listen and help you determine your next step. Please remember that Sunday is a very busy time. Make an appointment so that he can focus on you!
  • Attend Mass. Our family of faith is warm and welcoming.
  • Pray. Ask God to guide you in your quest.
  • Read Scripture. Consider signing up for a daily reflection.
  • Explore the Catechism of the Catholic Church, the official summary of our faith.
  • Explore a variety of resources available to answer questions or that share the stories of other's faith experiences. 

Explore Catholicism

The journey to becoming Catholic is one of invitation and initiation. Throughout the journey, you are encouraged to prayerfully discern if God is calling you to continue. The process is called the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA). In RCIA, you will learn about the teachings of Jesus as the Catholic Church has handed them on and also have the opportunity to participate in the life of the parish through service and prayer. 

What is initiation?

If you have not been baptized, Christian initiation prepares you to become a Catholic Christian through the sacraments of baptism, Holy Communion and confirmation.

If you have been baptized in another Christian church, initiation prepares you to enter into full communion with the Catholic Church be celebrating the sacraments of Holy Communion and confirmation. 

How long is the process?

RCIA preparation usually lasts for several months up to a year, depending on the readiness of those entering the Church. RCIA candidates for all three sacraments of initiation will typically celebrate the sacraments during the Easter Vigil liturgy on Holy Saturday.

What if it's not for me?

Seeking information about the Catholic faith will not commit or oblige you to become Catholic. It is not a process of indoctrination. We encourage you to learn about the faith and about Jesus Christ at your own pace, so that you can freely make your own choice. While we love the Catholic faith and hope that you will also come to love it our desire is for you to experience the love of Christ. We are here to serve you and look forward to getting to know you and to discover what God has planned for you! 

Catholics Returning Home

If you are an inactive Catholic, one that has celebrated all the sacraments of initiation, and would like to return to active participation in a parish, or have questions about the Catholic faith that are keeping you from active participation, please speak with one of our priests or pastoral team members. You can also find wonderful information at Catholics Come Home.

Catholics Come Home

Pastoral Contact

Mary Lestina
Pastoral Associate

office: 262.781.3480, Ext. 228