In the Catholic Christian faith, Sacraments are particular, sacred moments of God’s presence, celebrated within a structure of prayer and worship. This doesn’t mean, however, that God’s presence is only in those moments. Rather, we are called to be people who live ‘sacramental lives’; who go from those designated moments of the Sacraments – nourished and graced – to live and share God’s presence in the course of our lives.
The Catholic Church welcomes people of all ages, backgrounds and walks of life – anyone who has a deep desire to learn about and to enter into a life of faith in Jesus Christ can become a Catholic.
Adults who are interested in wanting to become Catholic can participate in our Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) program. This program provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of the Catholic faith – its teachings, history and traditions – and culminates in the person receiving the Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation.
Children raised in Catholic families typically receive the Sacrament of Baptism as infants. However, children not baptised can become Catholics through a tailored RCIA program for their age and level of understanding.
Christians who have been baptised in other Christian denominations can also become Catholics. These people do not get baptised again, but they will be asked to make a profession of faith, and receive the Sacraments of Eucharist and Confirmation.
The Catholic Church makes the RCIA program accessible for anyone wondering how to become Catholic or seeking clarification on what you need to become a Catholic.
Interested in becoming a Catholic? Follow these steps:
- Speak to our parish team: Give us a call or send us an email and let us know you wish to begin your journey to becoming a Catholic. We can connect you to our RCIA team, who will guide you through the process.
- Attend the RCIA classes: RCIA classes are normally held [once a week] and cover a wide range of topics about the Catholic faith, including the Bible, Church history, liturgy and the sacraments.
- Participate in retreats and parish activities: RCIA participants, and other members of our community, are encouraged to participate in prayer meetings, retreats, parish gatherings and other activities that help them to deepen their faith and experience the Catholic community.
- Receive the Sacraments: After completing the RCIA program, participants are ready to recieve the Sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation. The celebration of being welcomed into the Catholic family typically happens at an Easter Vigil or Pentecost Sunday Mass – this will be finalised throughout the program.
- Continue to grow in faith: Finishing the RCIA program and becoming a Catholic is not a conclusion – it is the beginning of a lifelong journey of faith and growth. Catholics are encouraged to continue to learn about their faith, participate in the sacraments and to live a life that is consistent with their Catholic beliefs.