The process to prepare adults to receive the sacraments of initiation (Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist) is called the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults. Enrollment is open to the non-baptized, baptized Christians of other denominations, and baptized Catholics who wish to be confirmed and receive the Eucharist.

The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the process of discerning and ritualizing stages of gradual conversion. Initiation of adults belongs to all the baptized. The process is about building a relationship over time with both God and the Catholic community. It is the Church's method of affecting a faith journey of conversion.

The process has no time frame. Conversion occurs on God's time; not our time. The RCIA conversion process consists of four periods. The amount of time spent in each phase is dependent on individual needs and feelings.

• The Period of Evangelization or Precatechumenate
• The Period of The Catechumenate
• The Period of Purification and Enlightenment
• Mystagogy

At the end of each period, a rite is celebrated to signify the continuation of the process until the sacraments of initiation are celebrated. The rites are:

• The Rite of Acceptance (into the Order of the Catechumens)
• The Rite of Election
• Celebration of the Sacraments of Initiation

Inquirers seeking to entrance into the Catholic Church meet once per week for instruction and discussion in the essentials of the Catholic Faith. They also attend Sunday Liturgy together as a group and are dismissed after the Liturgy of the Word to reflect more deeply on the Scriptures and seek to connect them to their daily lives. Each person on this faith journey has a companion called a sponsor, a baptized Catholic who provides support, prayers, and guidance. Further, it is the work of the entire Christian community to support these inquirers through their prayers and example.

How to Participate

• Encourage adults seeking Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist, and entrance into the Catholic Church to join the RCIA process.
• Become a sponsor to journey one-on-one with an adult through the RCIA process.
• Become a team member: it takes lots of people to make RCIA possible. In addition to sponsors, we need people to provide snacks and hospitality, help with taking photos, clerical work, preparing for parties, and more.
• Offer your prayers and support to those involved in RCIA.