Becoming Catholic — RCIA
Have you ever felt drawn to the Catholic faith? Perhaps you have been attending Mass with a partner or family member, or perhaps something deeper has been stirring in you for a while. Whatever has brought you here, you are very welcome.
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults — known as RCIA — is the process through which adults join the Catholic Church. It is a warm, welcoming and unhurried journey of discovery, guided by our parish community every step of the way.
Who is RCIA for?
The RCIA programme is open to anyone who is:
- Not yet baptised and would like to explore becoming Catholic — these participants are known as Catechumens
- Baptised in another Christian tradition and would like to become Catholic — these participants are known as Candidates
- Baptised Catholic but has never received the sacraments of Confirmation or Holy Communion
You do not need to have made up your mind. Coming along to find out more is enough of a first step.
What does the programme involve?
RCIA is a journey rather than a course. Weekly sessions take place in the Parish Hall at Oldham Terrace and cover the key teachings of the Catholic faith, the sacraments, and what it means to live as a Catholic in today’s world.
The programme moves through the liturgical year — the seasons of the Church’s calendar — and those taking part are welcomed and celebrated by the whole parish community at key moments along the way:
- The Rite of Acceptance and Rite of Welcoming — the community formally welcomes Catechumens and Candidates as they begin their journey
- The Rite of Election — the community affirms and supports those preparing to receive the sacraments
- The Lenten Scrutinies — the community prays for the spiritual healing and strengthening of those preparing for Baptism
- The Easter Vigil — the most joyful night of the year, when Catechumens are baptised and all Candidates are fully welcomed into the Church
The role of the parish community
RCIA is not just for those joining — it involves the whole parish. As a community, we are all part of welcoming those who are seeking. There are several ways parishioners can get involved:
- As a sponsor — accompanying a candidate on their journey, offering friendship, prayer and support
- As an evangeliser — encouraging someone you know who might be searching to come along and find out more
- As a welcoming community — simply being present, warm and open at the Rites and celebrations throughout the year
How to find out more
The best first step is simply to come along and meet us. We hold informal information evenings for anyone who is curious — no commitment required, just an open mind and a willingness to explore.
To find out when the next information evening is taking place, or to register your interest, please contact the parish office at acton@rcdow.org.uk or call 020 8992 2014. You can also pick up a registration form from the back of the church.
“Come and see.” — John 1:39