What is RCIA?

The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults is a program through which adults are prepared for Baptism or full initiation into the Roman Catholic Church. It involves several stages, each intended to assist one in knowing the truth of the Roman Catholic Faith and the practices of her Faithful.

Who may participate?

Any adult interested in learning more about the Roman Catholic Church and Her teachings may participate in the RCIA program. One does not need to commit to becoming Catholic to study the faith in RCIA, though most choose to do so after learning Her Teachings and Her Traditions.

What is involved?

The RCIA process involves four distinct stages of preparation in the education of adults. In order for one to be capable of making an informed decision to become a Roman Catholic, this process is a necessary one. The four stages are the Pre-Catechumenate, Catechumenate, Purification and Enlightenment, and Mystagogia. Each of these marks the individual’s journey, which begins in the fall and culminates with the Easter Vigil, the evening before Easter Sunday. In the RCIA process one should anticipate a prayerful participation in the Sunday Mass, regular attendance of weekly classes during the evenings, and a commitment of time necessary to reach the journey’s climax: receiving each of the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Eucharist) at the Easter Vigil.

**The RCIA program is designed to educate and inform individuals on the authentic Teachings and Traditions of the Roman Catholic Church. While one may choose to participate in this program, no one is expected to make a commitment or promise prior to one’s readiness. St. Mary Parish expects no monetary donations and has no fees for the program. Any person interested in simply learning more about the faith is encouraged to register and attend.

To register online for class, click here. For more information, contact Laurel Wallace at lwallace@stmarymobile.org or (251) 432-8542.

Once you have filled out the above online registration, please print and fill out the following forms, then submit them to your instructor. If you have questions about these forms, please ask your instructor at your next class.

Candidate Registration Form (This form is the full registration form which must be filled out before you receive any sacraments.)

Sponsor Verification Form