Our Catholicity is more than just a series of actions or rituals. It’s more than a collection of prayers or obligations. It’s even more than our scripture and symbols. Our history, our belief, our sacraments are rich in meaning, definition, and purpose. By joining the Catholic Church, you will unite with a Christian family of faith throughout the world and throughout all time. We want you to have the full benefit of a spiritual and rational understanding of the creed you will profess, the sacraments you will receive, and the relationship of faith you will be forming. Our relationship with God is always a process, an encounter that we engage throughout our entire life. RCIA is also a process, offering both information and formation.
People who have never received Christian baptism; called “Catechumens” in the RCIA. Catechumens will receive instruction and formation, leading toward reception of all 3 sacraments of Initiation [Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist].
People who received a Christian Baptism in a different denomination; called “Candidates” in the RCIA. The Catholic faith is a Christian religion. Other examples of Christian religions are: Baptist, United Church of Christ, Assembly of God, Presbyterian, Lutheran, etc. All Christian religions share a common baptism in Christ. RCIA Candidates will receive instruction and formation, leading toward celebrating the sacraments of Reconciliation, Confirmation, and Eucharist.
People who were baptized in the Catholic Church, but were not educated (i.e., catechized) in the Catholic faith beyond baptism. These adults are also called Candidates in the RCIA process and, as with the Candidates described above, will receive instruction and formation, leading toward celebrating the sacraments of Reconciliation, Confirmation, and Eucharist.
What about my children? Is the process the same if I want them to become Catholic?
There is a separate but equal, age appropriate process for children. We invite you to consider this process if:
Your child in Grades 3-8, has not yet been Baptized or received First Communion, and desires to become Catholic
or
Your child has been baptized but has not yet received First Communion, and desires to become Catholic.
Please be aware that it is Holy Spirit’s Religious Education policy that children are in a formal faith formation program for a minimum of 1 year before receiving the Sacrament of Holy Communion and Confirmation.
I want to explore the Catholic faith through RCIA at Holy Spirit Parish!
Whom should I contact?
Welcome! We are excited that you are open to this process! Please contact:
Deacon Jim DeNatale 314.739.0230 deaconjim@holyspiritstl.org
Our RCIA process, typically, begins each year in early September.