Becoming Catholic (RCIA)

FAQ about RCIA

The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults

Who should attend RCIA?

People who have not received all the sacraments of initiation; Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist (First Communion). Those already baptized Christian will need to make a profession of Faith and then they will be Confirmed and receive first Eucharist. Also Catholics who have been away from the practice of their faith can benefit from a revisiting of the topics covered in the RCIA presentations.

I’m already baptized in another denomination. Do I need to attend RCIA?

Yes, but the Catholic Church does not re-baptize those who have been baptized in another Christian church. If you have been baptized but never received instructions in the Catholic Faith then RCIA is recommended. RCIA will help you to begin the life long learning of the beliefs, practices, and traditions of the Catholic Church.

What kind of information do I need to join RCIA?

You need no information to join the process, but if you wish to become Catholic then you will need to obtain copies of your baptismal records and submit them to the Pastor who will further assist you. Since obtaining records may be a time consuming process it is suggested you begin whenever you believe Catholicism is right for you. If for some reason your church did not keep records or the church no longer exists, other arrangements can be made.

I have been divorced and I’m not remarried, can I become Catholic?

Yes. As long as you remain unmarried, you do not need to obtain an annulment through the Catholic Church . It is always beneficial to discuss your situation in confidence with the Pastor.

I’ve been divorced and have remarried and my spouse is divorced and remarried. Can I become Catholic?

Definitely yes, but each situation is unique and should first be discussed with the Pastor. An annulment of your previous marriage may be needed. If It is necessary for you and your current spouse to begin seeking an annulment, we encourage you to begin the process as soon as possible, even if your spouse is not considering entry into the Church. You certainly can attend RCIA instructions while the annulment process is ongoing. Reception into the Church will have to wait until the annulment process has been completed.

What’s the cutoff date for joining RCIA?

There is no actual cutoff date, but the RCIA presentations typically start in September and end about one month after Easter Sunday; a total of about 9 months. The time needed to be prepared to join the Church depends on your faith level and readiness to receive the sacraments. It is the pastor's responsibility to determine ones readiness for reception into the Church.

When does RCIA meet and how long does it last?

RCIA at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church meets weekly on Sundays from 3:30 – 5:00 p.m. in the West Classroom (formerly the Music Room). The inquiry sessions usually begin in September and end about one month after Easter. Since joining the Catholic Church we believe is a serious commitment, the RCIA process is designed to give you the information and encouragement needed for you to decide whether you wish to join. Please note that Baptism and reception in the Church typically occur at Easter Vigil, but RCIA classes continue several weeks after.

I heard I need a sponsor. What is that and how do I get one?

Sponsors are practicing Catholics who are in good standing with the Church and who accompany you on your journey through RCIA. For Baptism the Sponsor is called “godparent”. Our Lady of the Lake encourages the Sponsors to attend session with you as often as possible. If you know someone who meets the criteria you can simply ask them to sponsor you. If they don’t live locally the church will provide you a “proxy” who will be available to accompany you in an ongoing basis and then at Easter Vigil the Sponsor you prefer can then stand in the local proxy’s place as your official sponsor. If you need a sponser we will be glad to provide you with one from the parish.

I have children. Do you provide child care?

Unfortunately, no. If that is a problem for you then speak with one of the RCIA volunteers who may be able to offer help.

How old should a person be to attend RCIA?

Technically, old enough to understand what is being taught. Typically from older teens age 15 and up. (see below)

For more information, contact Lloyd Blaine at blainel@sbcglobal.net.

"The rite of initiation is suited to a spiritual journey of adults that varies according to the many forms of God’s grace, the free cooperation of individuals, the action of the Church, and the circumstances of time and place"

We at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church are eager to help those seeking to know more about Jesus and how to follow Him according to the Catholic tradition.

If you have questions or know someone who has asked you questions, let us help you.

Rite of Christian Initiation for Children in 1st - 6th Grade

If you are seeking Sacrmaments of Initiation for a child in grades 1-6, please visit our Children's Faith Formation Class Description page.

Rite of Christian Initiation for Youth in 7th - 12th Grade

If you are seeking Sacraments of Initiation for a youth in grades 7-12, please visit our Youth Ministry "Need a Sacrament" page.

Becoming Catholic (RCIA)