Are you familiar enough with the teachings of the Catholic church to be able to say that you know this is something you want to be a part of? If the answer is yes, great! Keep on reading. If you’re not so sure, seek out a friend or a member of the clergy for information. And there’s always the Internet! Do you believe that Jesus is the Son of God and the true Messiah? Do you have faith in the Holy Trinity – the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit? How about the Virgin Mary and transubstantiation? Yes? Great! Moving on.
If time isn’t on your side, read Genesis and the Gospels. You’ll get a good grasp on the creation story and the story of Jesus. What’s more, when you do talk to a priest and express your interest, it’ll be clear you’ve done your homework.
If you’ve been baptized, but your initiation process stops there, you may not need to take RCIA classes. It all depends on your education and desires. Most baptized people will go through a much shorter period of inquiry and reflection and can join the church on any Sunday.
Sure, finding one is good, but finding 4 is great. Think about churches the way you would think about college. They’ll all offer you an education, but each one will be very different from every other. One church may turn you off while another feels like home. If you haven’t found one that speaks to you, keep looking.
Sure, finding one is good, but finding 4 is great. Think about churches the way you would think about college. They’ll all offer you an education, but each one will be very different from every other. One church may turn you off while another feels like home. If you haven’t found one that speaks to you, keep looking.
You’re not necessarily looking for answers when you pray. Just a little talk with someone up there (saints included![7] X Research source ) to show your appreciation, ask for help, or just to relax with and take in the moment. It can be done anywhere, anytime, anyplace, and through thought, words, singing, or action.
Sometimes churches work like schools in that you’re only allowed to go to the one designated by your geographical area. If you find one that is further away and this is the rule in your diocese, just get a letter from your local parish allowing you to attend your desired church.
During a Mass, you (and everyone else in your “term”) will publicly announce your intentions through the Rite of Acceptance into the Order of Catechumens and the Rite of Welcoming. Don’t worry – there’s no public speaking involved. You are no longer in the pre-catechumenate process and have stepped forward to being a catechumen!
However, you’ll be involved in many other ways! You will receive anointing, participate in prayers, and become involved with the community at large. Not to mention, your class will become closer and closer and do things on their own time.
During this time, you may be asked to clarify your marriage status. If you are divorced but have not received an annulment, you will need to obtain one before becoming Catholic. If you are married but not by the eyes of the Catholic church, you may be asked to get “remarried,” (or have your marriage “blessed”) which can – believe it or not – be done by appointment.
The first two listed are at the beginning of Lent. When the 40 days are up, at the Easter Vigil you will be baptized, confirmed, and receive Eucharist. Yayyyyy!
In case you’re curious, for the Sacraments, no, you don’t really have to do anything. Showing up with a smile on your face and good intentions in your heart is really all that’s required. There’s no memorizing, no actions, and no final test. The church is just glad you’re here. The priest will take care of the work! Make sure to go to continue Mass regularly, and get into the habit of going to Confession on a regular basis.
Some churches may continue to “teach” you (more like guidance when needed) for up to a year. You’re still considered a newbie and may ask all the questions you need! Really, they’re just there to help. Then it’s out of mother’s nest and into the heavens!
