RCIA FAQ

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Who belongs to the RCIA process?

This process of Initiation is for those who…

Are not baptized and want to become Catholic Christians through the Sacraments of Initiation
Want to learn more about the Catholic Church.
Are baptized Christians (in another faith or Catholic) who want full membership in the sacramental life of the Roman Catholic Church through Confirmation and Eucharist.
Attend Catholic Church because of a special friend, relative, or spouse and not sure if this is the church for them. They wish to ask, learn and understand their loved ones commitment to the Catholic faith.

What if I have no previous religious affiliation?

There are many reasons you may be considering Catholicism. Perhaps your spouse, fiance(e), or another friend has encouraged you to consider Catholicism. Or there may be other reasons you have been searching. In some way, God is calling you into a deeper relationship. We welcome you and any questions you may have about Catholicism. If you decide you want to be baptized Catholic, we will accompany you through the stages of the RCIA process.

What if I belong to another Christian tradition?

You may feel God calling you to explore a different spiritual path at this point in your life. Perhaps a spouse, fiancé, or friend has encouraged you to consider Catholicism. The decision to change faith traditions should involve a deep spiritual commitment and should not be made lightly. Please know that we deeply respect other religions. If you have been baptized (In the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit) in another Christian tradition, we honor your baptism, please bring your baptismal certificate. You will not be baptized again. If you decide to make Catholicism your spiritual home, you will be receiving the Sacraments of Eucharist and Confirmation as part of the Roman Catholic Church.

What kind of commitment is involved?

We ask that you be honestly committed to deepening your own faith life. As a participant in the RCIA process, the time commitment involves weekly sessions that are a combination of leaning, prayer, and community. As you enter the deeper stages of the process, participation in Sunday liturgies is also expected. If you decide to discontinue the process at any time, we will respect your decision.

When and where do the RCIA sessions take place?

Sessions star after Labor Day on Wednesday evenings from 7-8:30 pm in the Adult Education Center located at St Raphael Parish. Beginning in September the process finds its apex at the celebration of the Easter Vigil. After the Easter Vigil we will gather a few more times until Pentecost Sunday

What else will be expected of me?

Bring an open heart and mind. The RCIA is a process of learning to live our call to be disciples of Jesus in the context of the Catholic Church. We will be studying and praying with Scripture and learning about the Catholic Faith. But the RCIA process is more than learning facts and history; it is about conversion. Conversion is a lifelong process—not a single moment or a change of religion. Conversion is growing in our relationship with God.

Do I need a Sponsor?

A parish sponsor is someone who is a dedicated practicing Catholic who will walk the journey of conversion with you. Perhaps you already have someone in mind. The sponsor, however, is not in most circumstances the candidate/catechumen’s spouse. If you have someone in mind, please let us know. If not we will provide a sponsor for you. Please keep in mind that the sponsor is expected to be at all of the gatherings from September to Pentecost Sunday.

Is there a fee for RCIA?

There is no fee for RCIA.