Every year thousands of people choose to become Catholic, and each one has their own special story. The Catholic Church’s mission is to offer people of all ages and backgrounds the opportunity to deepen their understanding and relationship with Jesus Christ.The St Christopher’ community welcomes you and we are here to help answer all those questions that might result from the call that God is inviting you to follow. Becoming a Catholic is one of life’s deepest and most joyful experiences.

Becoming Catholic involves a journey of faith, accompanied by the support of a parish community.  This process is called Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, or RCIA.  Through RCIA, adults are introduced into and learn about the Catholic faith. Children over the age of seven years and teenagers are supported through an adapted form of the Rite.

During the RCIA process you meet with others to share, reflect, pray and learn more about the Catholic faith.  There are ceremonies or ‘rites’ at each stage to signify the steps along the way.

The RCIA is for all those seeking to become members of the Catholic Church. The RCIA may also be referred to as the Catechumenate, highlighting its roots in the Christian formation of the early Church. The Rite encompasses all aspects of the Christian life.The RCIA takes place within the 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 Jesus Christ and the Catholic faith in company with others on a similar journey.The RCIA team leaders journey with the Candidates and Catechumens. They attend weekly meetings on Wednesday evenings and help lead small group discussions. 

The RCIA is offered to those who have never been baptised in any Christian church but may also benefit those already baptised who desire to become Catholic. The non-baptised who are suitably prepared are joyfully received into the Catholic Church by the reception of the three Sacraments of Initiation, namely, Baptism, Confirmation and the Most Holy Eucharist. This takes place at the Easter Vigil in their local Catholic parish. Those already baptised in another Christian church, following a period of preparation, are welcomed into full communion with the Catholic Church by the reception of the Sacraments of Confirmation and the Most Holy Eucharist. 

Deciding to become a Catholic is an important life decision, therefore the process is a gradual one that usually takes about a year. You can change your mind at any time.

Firstly, find a parish community you would like to belong to. If you would like to be part of the St Christopher’s Parish, contact the parish office, or visit the parish and arrange to speak with our parish priest. You will be connected with a group of others who are interested in becoming Catholic and to a team that will guide you.

Secondly, you may wish to explore your relationship with Jesus through prayer and reading the Bible.You are also encouraged to begin to attend Masses, prayer opportunities, social events, and anything else happening in your new parish.

Finally, ask questions—lots of them!The St Christopher’ community wants to support and encourage your belonging in any way they can.

If you are interested in becoming Catholic or simply finding out more about the RCIA, you should contact our parish office and or speak to our RCIA coordinator. We look forward to hearing from you!

Contact: Parish Office 9802 8538