RCIA is the “Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults”; the process through which unbaptized persons (Catechumens) and baptized Christians (Candidates) can enter the Catholic church. It is a spiritual journey, a path to the fullness of truth, who is Jesus Christ.

• Catechumens (unbaptized persons) and baptized Christians who wish to become Catholic, and/or are interested in learning more about the Catholic faith.
• Baptized Catholics who have not received other sacraments (communion, reconciliation, confirmation) and/or have been away from the Catholic church for an extended period of time.
• Any non-Catholic who wishes to learn more about the Catholic faith.

    The process involves weekly meetings (classes) from the fall (August or September) to Pentecost. Usually, 38 classes are scheduled covering prayer, sacraments, the commandments, scripture and many other important teachings of the Catholic Church.
    The first period, the Period of Evangelization and Precatehumenate (Inquiry) lasts eight to ten weeks, culminating in a liturgical rite called Acceptance (for Catechumens), the first step to becoming a Catholic in full communion with the Catholic Church.
    After Acceptance is the period of the Catechumenate, a period of continued growth, study, and conversion. This period leads to the Election on the first Sunday of Lent, when “the Church formally ratifies the catechumens’ readiness for the sacrament of initiation”. At this time, catechumens state that it is their will to receive the sacrament.
    During Lent, catechumens experience the Period of Purification and Enlightenment, the final preparation for the Easter vigil celebration of the Sacrament of Initiation and entrance into the Catholic Church.
    At the Easter vigil, sacraments are received and Catechumens are formally recognized as Catholics.
    The Period of Mystagogy following Easter (during the Easter season) is the period new Catholics are especially encouraged to participate fully in the Eucharist, but also to delve deeply into the wealth of spiritual writings, devotions, traditions, and culture within our Catholic Church.      For all Catholics, this period is a profound opportunity to experience our faith together, encouraging all to grow to a transforming union with God.

Yes. If this applies to you, please contact our church office.
Catholics who have not been confirmed must get permission from our bishop to be confirmed.

    Yes, a sponsor is required for both Catechumens and Candidates. 
    A practicing Catholic in good standing (receiving sacraments) is required as your sponsor. This person will not only attend classes with you and stand with you as a sponsor at the Easter vigil, but will offer support and guidance throughout the process of Initiation. 

Show up to the first class without a Sponsor. We will provide one for you (for subsequent classes).

No. Classes and materials will be provided by our Parish.

Yes, you may return next year. You will need to start the process again, but you are certainly welcome to return.
And explanations are not required, although you may speak confidentially with any of us, if you desire.

• First, pray. Prayer is most important.
• Second, show up. We will provide all books and materials.
• Third, if you already have specific questions about the Catholic church, write them down or type them up. Do this every week. Then, give them to us at class.
• Fourth, we will give assignments. Participate, read, study, reflect. The more you are actively engaged, the more you will benefit from this important process.
• Fifth, give thanks to God for His many blessings.

Most certainly, yes. We encourage you to attend activities and events that interest you. Weekly bulletins provide information on all that happens at our church.
While you cannot receive communion until the Easter vigil, experiencing Mass weekly, even daily, would be most beneficial. If you have questions about the Mass, let us know.

Each situation is unique but these are important issues to understand and sort out. We will help you determine whether there are any obstacles for you at this time, and we'll work them out together.  You are most welcome at the Church of the Visitation, and we encourage you to bring this up with an RCIA team member or the pastor when you first inquire into the RCIA process.