Becoming Catholic

And every day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved.

- Acts 2:47

What is RCIA?

The Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) is the formal process for welcoming persons into the Catholic Church.

The process of instructing (Catechesis) people converting to the Christian faith (Catechumen) dates back to the early Church (Galatians 6:6).   The Second Vatican Council called for a restoration of the Catechumenate and a process of instruction that more closely resembled the Church of the first three centuries. implementing what we call today the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults.

Whom is RCIA for?

• Those who are seeking Baptism in the Catholic Church.
• Those who are baptized in a Christian tradition and wish to become Catholic.
• Catholics who are baptized and wish to complete the Sacraments of Initiation (First Eucharist and/or Confirmation).

Interested in Becoming Catholic?

The RCIA is commonly referred to as a “process” rather than a program, as our individual journey of faith is just that, a journey.  There is no set time frame for those that enter the process, though preparation to be fully received into the Catholic Church (typically on Easter Vigil) usually takes several months.  The process involves prayer, instruction, discernment, conversion and ultimately a decision on the part of the individual.  If you are interested in becoming Catholic or simply have questions about the Catholic faith, please contact Fr. Tony Lackland at lackland@smu.edu or Christina Bryant at clbryant@smu.edu.  The SMU Catholic staff would love to walk with you in faith on this important part of your spiritual journey!

RCIA 2011

• First Session is Sunday, September 18, 2011 from 3-4:30 p.m.
• 3rd floor of the Neuhoff Catholic Center
• Sessions will continue throughout the fall and spring semester, until full initiation at the Easter Vigil 2012!
• Contact Christina Bryant at clbryant@smu.edu for more information.