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1. I’m considering becoming a Catholic. Where do I begin?
The best place to begin is at a Catholic church near where you live.
To find a church near you, click here; it will give the website, addresses, and phone numbers of Catholic churches near you. Call or email the church office and ask to speak to the O.C.I.A. Director, who will set up a time to meet with you and be able to answer your questions.
2. What is O.C.I.A.?
R.C.I.A stands for the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults. O.C.I.A. is the “churchy” name for the process of becoming a Catholic. The person who leads the team that works with adults who wish to become Catholic is called the O.C.I.A. Director. At a few churches, this person is the pastor.
3. If I begin, am I obligated to become a Catholic?
No, you are welcome to “come and see.” The first phase of becoming a Catholic is called “Inquiry,” and you are welcome to inquire as long as you like before making a decision to become Catholic. It is always your choice to become a Catholic or not. The final choice is not made until receiving baptism, or being received into full communion.
4. How long does it take to become a Catholic?
The journey of faith is different for every person, depending on their situation. This will be discussed in more detail at your first meeting with the O.C.I.A. Director.
5. I’m already baptized in another church. Am I welcome? Will I have to be baptized again?
Yes, you are very welcome. The Church recognizes baptism in water in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit (in denominations which believe in the Trinity). This will be discussed when you meet with the O.C.I.A. Director.
6. I’m divorced. Is this a problem for becoming a Catholic?
This is not an absolute obstacle to becoming a Catholic, but the situation of someone who is divorced and remarried does present an issue which will need to be addressed during the O.C.I.A. process, and it will be discussed in more detail when you first meet with the O.C.I.A. Director.
As Catholics, following the teaching of Jesus, we believe that a valid marriage bond cannot be dissolved by any earthly power. However, we also recognize that life is often messy. Many people enter into marriages which due to various circumstances, do not hold the full meaning of what the Church means by marriage, and thus did not create an indissoluble bond. The process for clarifying your marital situation before the Church is popularly called 'getting an annulment'. This process works in different ways depending on your situation. This process will be part of your preparation for becoming Catholic if you are divorced and remarried.7. I’m baptized Catholic, but I have not been confirmed. What should I do?
Find a Catholic church near you by using this link and call the church. Tell them you are a baptized Catholic, but need Confirmation. They will direct you to the proper person.
8. How much does it cost to become a Catholic?
Most churches charge nothing, but a few charge from $50 to $100 to defray the costs of books and a retreat. No one who is unable to pay is turned away.
9. May someone else come with me?
Absolutely.