BAPTISM OF ADULTS and RCIA
As part of the larger process, known as the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA), the Cathedral Parish will again be offering classes for adults who wish to inquire about the Catholic faith or who have already decided that they would like to become a Catholic. These classes are intended for adults and provide a forum in which questions can be asked and information given regarding the teachings and life of the Catholic Church. Please check the Calendar for updates.
The origin and foundation of Christian Baptism is Jesus. Before starting his public ministry, Jesus submitted himself to the baptism given by John the Baptist. The waters did not purify him; he cleansed the waters. Jesus’ immersion in the water is a sign for all human beings of the need to die to themselves to do God’s will. By commanding his disciples to baptize all nations, he established the means by which people would die to sin—Original and actual—and begin to live a new life with God (USCCB).
For an adult who has never been baptized (Catechumen), who wishes to become a Catholic, he/she would become part of the RCIA (The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults). It is a year-long program of instruction in the teachings of the Catholic faith, and a deepening of one’s conversion to life in Christ. At the Cathedral, our instructions begin each year in mid-September and continue through the following Easter. At the Easter Vigil Mass, an adult would be Baptized, Confirmed and receive the Holy Eucharist, thus becoming a fully initiated Catholic.
For an adult who has already been baptized in another Christian Church (Candidate), who now seeks to enter into full communion with the Catholic Church, he/she also participates in the RCIA. Reception into full communion would take place at the Easter Vigil Mass, and involves the reception of the Sacrament of Reconciliation, a Profession of faith, the Sacrament of Confirmation and the reception of the Holy Eucharist.
For more information please call the Church office at 912-233-4709.
