A Full Explanation of the Process of Preparation
Becoming Catholic
The Catholic Church has a special way of initiating adults into the Catholic faith. It is called the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA). It is a period of Christian formation offered to those seeking to become Catholic.
The RCIA takes place within a parish community so you are able to share in the life of the Church expressed in a local faith community. It offers a way to grow in knowledge of Christ and the Catholic faith in company with others on a similar journey.
What is the RCIA?
The church recognises the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) as a process of preparation where a person undertakes a spiritual journey.
The aim of the RCIA is to assist people from all backgrounds to explore experiences of God’s presence in their life.
Are you inquiring or interested in becoming a Catholic?
If you would like to become Catholic or learn more about the Catholic faith this process is a good place to start. At Holy Spirit Parish we gather weekly, commencing in late August each year, breaking over the school holiday period.
Over the months leading to Easter the following year, the parish community will walk with you and support you as you discover God’s grace in your life. This is a gradual process of inquiry and each person’s journey is their own. While weekly gatherings suit most people, there is flexibility to meet individual needs.
This process caters for a wide audience depending on the needs of those who come forward.
- You may have been baptised as a child but have not received the sacraments of Eucharist or Confirmation.
- You have friends or family who are baptised Catholics and you would like to know more.
What if I decide not to continue?
There is no obligation to complete the RCIA sessions, you may withdraw at any time.
What is my next step?
For more information contact the parish office or phone the parish office on 6242 9622
RCIA Resources
- The Archdiocese of Canberra and Goulburn – You are welcome into a relationship with the God who loves you. That message is at the heart of the Catholic experience. The Canberra-Goulburn Archdiocesan website looks at the three sacraments that initiate us into this relationship, beginning with an explanation of the process called RCIA.
- At Home with God’s People – This site provides extra information and resources for individuals and groups using
- Fr Michael Fallon – A website with information on many topics including scripture, reflection on Sunday’s readings and prayer.
- CathFamily – A website dedicated to assisting families in making the home the living heart of the church. As a church, we have benefited over the centuries from simple home-based rituals to provide practical faith experiences for our children. This site aims to provide innovative and contemporary resources to continue this tradition—by collecting both traditional and contemporary rituals that Catholic families can adapt into their own family rituals.
