The Rite of Christian Initiation (RCIA) is the process by which adults are introduced to the Catholic faith and prepared to receive the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist. It is a journey that involves both personal formation and communal participation in the life of the Church. At the Cathedral Parish, we offer one-on-one accompaniment for those interested in joining the Catholic Church, providing personalized guidance and support throughout this significant spiritual journey.

For those who have not been baptized, or whose baptism is not recognized because it did not use the Trinitarian formula, the usual practice is to receive all the sacraments of initiation—Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist—at the Easter Vigil. This special liturgy, celebrated on the night before Easter, marks the most solemn and joyful moment of the liturgical year, welcoming new members into the Church as they receive these sacraments for the first time.

For those who have been validly baptized in a non-Catholic ecclesial community, the process is a bit different. These individuals are typically received into the Catholic Church by making a profession of faith and then completing their sacraments of initiation—Confirmation and Eucharist—on Easter Sunday. This reflects the Church's recognition of the validity of their baptism and their need to fully enter into the sacramental life of the Catholic Church.

The RCIA process is deeply liturgical, with several key rites celebrated at different stages of the journey. In the fall, those who are preparing to become Catholic are formally enrolled as Catechumens. This enrollment signifies their commitment to continue their formation and their intention to receive the sacraments. Being a Catechumen means that they are already part of the Church in a special way, as they are considered members of the household of Christ, even before they receive the sacraments.

If you are interested in becoming Catholic, please fill out the form below. Adults (anyone above 18) who have already been baptized in the Catholic Church but are missing Confirmation or First Communion should click here to fill out a different form.