Interested in Becoming Catholic? Baptized Catholic, but Not Fully Initiated?

If you have been someone who has been attending Mass regularly but is not an “official Catholic,” this invitation is for you.  I have often met with adults who attended Mass for years (often receiving Communion at the encouragement of a friend or spouse or just because it felt awkward not to) and hesitated to be part of RCIA because it seemed like a really long process and after all…what would be different?  May I say in some cases--“Lots!”

 

For many of us, there is something genuinely fulfilling in completing something.  Having the degree after completing the work and study of college, achieving a level of professionalism in one’s work marked with an award, gaining a new certification—all these are marks of accomplishment and expertise.  Joining the Catholic faith isn’t really like those, but there is something to be said about feeling official.  I think it is why sometimes couples are together for years and then out of the blue decide to get married.  All those years didn’t make it “out of the blue”; guaranteed they were thinking about it a long time. Same thing I often find with folks who finally decide; OK!  I’m going to take the plunge! What do I have to do?  

 

They’ve been thinking about becoming Catholic but have been waiting for an invitation at the right time.  Is this the right time for you?

 

You’ll be happy to know that the RCIA is a process and therefore not the same for everyone.  Some people come to inquire who really know little or nothing about Jesus. Others have participated in another Christian denomination for most of their lifetime and are well versed in the Scriptures and the meaning of discipleship but know little of Catholic culture or vocabulary.  Still others, like those I mentioned above, know a lot about Catholic liturgy and sacraments, have listened to Scripture and homilies, prayed with the Assembly each week “and need only instruction in the Catholic tradition and a degree of probation within the Catholic Community.”  Those who come unbaptized, knowing nothing about Christ or his Church usually need about 2 years of formation.  For those well versed in Christianity and participating in Catholic Mass weekly, it is usually months with the mentoring of a local sponsor.

 

Is the RCIA /OCIA for you?  Is this your time?  Anytime is an ideal time to inquire.  If you’d like more information, please call the Ascension Parish Center at 708-848-2703.