Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Become Catholic?
The Catholic Church warmly welcomes new members and tries to provide an appropriate spiritual formation according to each person’s needs.  The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the Church’s way of initiating new members.

RCIA?  What Does That Mean?
RCIA is a process concerned with the total formation of a person into someone who actively participates in the Church community.  This includes studying the beliefs of the Church community (doctrinal formation), connecting with the Church community in a variety of ways (practical formation), praying and worshipping with the Church community (liturgical formation), and serving with the Church community (apostolic formation).

Who May Attend RCIA

    Persons who have never been baptized as Christians.
    Persons who have been baptized in another Christian faith and are now interested in the Catholic tradition.
    Persons who were baptized in the Catholic tradition but not raised as Catholics.

How Long Does It Take?
RCIA is not a program.  It is a process of preparation for the lifetime commitment that comes with reception into the Church.  Consequently, some people will need more time than others to prepare for this.  The usual length of preparation is from one to two years.  The initiation of new members ordinarily takes place at the Easter Vigil each year.

What is the Process Like?
RCIA generally meets weekly, but each parish RCIA schedule varies according to holidays and parish community calendars.  Those who are attending RCIA sessions and have chosen to seek full membership are presented to the parish community at a Sunday Mass.  This and other Sunday rituals mark the spiritual growth of the candidates as well as express the community’s joy and concern for them.

What Are The Weekly Sessions Like?
Candidates learn about our Catholic beliefs and share in the prayer of the community.  They are introduced to many ways of engaging in apostolic service within the Church community and in their daily lives.  Their acquaintance and understanding of Scripture is expanded and deepened.

If I Begin, Am I Obligated To Become Catholic?
There is no obligation to make any kind of commitment nor is there pressure exerted on anyone to become Catholic.  We respect the conscience and decision of every inquirer.

What Should I Do First?
Contact your local parish and tell them that you are interested in investigating how to become Catholic.  At St. Leo the Great Parish, please call 513.921.1044.

If you do not know what parish is close to you, Please call the Worship Office of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati at 513.421.3131.  Someone at each location will be happy to put you in touch with the person who can answer your questions.