Interested in Becoming Catholic

RCIA

The letters “RCIA” stand for Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults.  This is the official process in which one is baptized.  The full RCIS process consists of four periods of awakening, growth and formation called Inquiry of Pre-catechumenate, Catechumenate, Purification and Enlightenment, and finally Mystagogia.  There are also three major rites that involve the entire parish community of Holy Cross.  These rites are: Rite of Acceptance, Rite of Sending and Election and the Sacraments of Initiation.  This process varies in duration and in accordance with the Diocese of Orlando will be a minimum of one full liturgical year.

Do I need a sponsor?

Yes, everyone will need a sponsor.  A sponsor must be a practicing Catholic who has received the Sacrament of Confirmation.  If you do not know of anyone who can be your sponsor please let us know and one will be found for you.  Your sponsor is invited to attend classes with you but it is not mandatory.  There will be dates during your preparation that your sponsor will be required to attend.

I really want to become Catholic why is this process so long?

Being baptized is a lifelong commitment.  It is not just one action, but a way of life.  That life includes living your life in fulfillment of the Gospel and the teaching of the Church, ministry to others, and attending Eucharist.  Many people are interested in the Catholic faith but do not realize that it is a lifelong commitment.

About the Inquiry Period:

The Inquiry Period is the stage when an individual first contacts the church and is interviewed.  If you are just seeking information regarding the Catholic faith and are not sure if baptism is what you want, you can attend the meetings to gain this knowledge.  Most candidates have already made the decision to be baptized.  This part of the Inquiry stage of gaining knowledge is not needed and candidates will enter the process of Initiation and attend our weekly meetings.  This period of Inquiry ends with the Rite of Acceptance, the formal process with the parish community that the pre-catechumen desires to continue with their initiation process.  The Rite of Acceptance is held periodically throughout the year.

Groups are now forming for more information please email Sharon Taylor at staylor@hccchurch.org