Are You Interested in Being Catholic?

Information for adults interested in joining the Catholic Church..

How do people join the Catholic Church?

The Catholic Parishes in Waterloo welcome individuals or families who are interested in joining the Catholic faith community. For individuals who have never been baptised or catechised in the Christian faith, the Parishes provide the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults. For individuals who have been baptised, catechised and participating regularly in a Christian tradition, the Parishes offer the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults/II.

What is the Rite of Christian Initiation?

The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults is modeled on the initiation ritual of the ancient Christian community. It is an experience of personal formation and spiritual growth which incorporates prayer, study, reflection, and discernment in a combination of public rituals and community preparation. It is the principle way that the Catholic community welcomes new members who have not been baptised.

The RCIA is divided into four phases:

    a period of inquiry called the Pre-catechumentate,
    a period of continuing formation and discernment called the Catechumenate,
    a period of final preparation and discernment called Enlightenment,
    and a period of continuing formation and reflection called Mystagogia.
The RCIA meets weekly, usually on Wednesday evenings, and may last as long as a year. It generally concludes with a solemn public celebration of the sacraments of Baptism, First Eucharist and Confirmation at the Easter Vigil in the local parish. Participants in the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults are assigned an individual sponsor, a member of the Catholic faith community who accompanies them on their journey through the initiation process.

What is the Rite of Christian Initiation/II?

The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults/II is an adaptation of the Rite of Christian Initiation, designed for adults who have already been baptized and catechised in a mainline Christian church. RCIA/II is a shorter period of discernment and preparation which concentrates on the distinctive characteristics, rituals and teachings of the Roman Catholic Church. RCIA/II meets weekly, and is available several times during the year. It generally concludes with a profession of faith and celebration of First Eucharist and/or Confirmation during a Sunday Mass in the local parish. Members of the Catholic faith community are assigned as guides to participants in the Rite of Christian Initiation/II.

What is Breaking Open the Word?

Before and/or during the RCIA, adults who are interested in becoming Catholic are invited to participate in Breaking Open the Word, which takes place each week during or after Sunday Mass in the local parish. Breaking Open the Word is a continuing opportunity to discuss God's Word in the Sunday scripture readings and participants' personal journey of faith.

About Marriage and Initiation

Individuals who have divorced and remarried may enter the RCIA process but must have their previous marriage annulled before they celebrate initiation in the Catholic Church. Individuals who have divorced but not remarried may enter the RCIA process and celebrate initiation in the Catholic Church. They must have their previous marriage annulled before entering a second marriage.

What About Children and Families?

    Children ages 4 or younger are usually baptized without formal preparation. Parents are expected to attend a preparation class before baptizing an infant or young child.
    Children ages 5-6 may be baptized following a short period of informal catechesis, depending upon the custom of the local parish.
    Children ages 7 or older are expected to participate in a period of formal catechesis before being baptized or making a profession of faith. This preparation includes regular partici-pation in a parish religious formation program or Catholic school for at least one school year.

What Should You Expect?

If you participate in the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults or The Rite of Christian Affiliation for Adults, you should expect to grow in your under-standing of the Catholic faith and to deepen your own personal spiritual life, even if you choose not to become Catholic. You should also expect...
    to be treated with respect and understanding at all times.
    to have your previous religious and spiritual experience carefully respected.
    to be clearly informed about all aspects of the formation program and all opportunities for participation in the Catholic faith community.
    to make your own free choice about continuing participation in the RCIA or RCAA process, and/or membership in the Catholic faith community.
    to be guided, encouraged and supported in making and explaining your decision to join the Catholic Church to your family and friends.
    to be warmly welcomed and sincerely accepted by members of the Catholic faith community.

What's the Next Step?

If you are interested in becoming Catholic but are not sure, visit with a trusted friend or spiritual guide about your decision. Talk to someone you know who is an active Catholic. Visit Catholic parishes in your area and attend Sunday Mass. Continue to pray for God's guidance and grace and seek more information about the Catholic Church so that you can make an informed decision. If you would like more information about the Rite of Christian Initiation, contact the pastor or a member of the parish staff in a Catholic parish where you feel welcome. Members of Blessed Sacrament Community will welcome your questions. Our pastor and parish staff are eager to discuss your interest in the Catholic Church and to answer any questions or concerns you may have about joining the Catholic Church.

If you are interested in serving as a sponsor or host in the RCIA, contact Barb Duggan at the parish office 319-235-9430; or Email to find out more about how you can be involved in this rewarding ministry.