Christian Initiation:
For Inquirers
Welcome
This page is for anyone who is interested in becoming Catholic. For a brief overview of the Catholic faith, see “Explore Catholicism.”
Anyone who wants to become Catholic is invited to embark on a journey of learning, praying, growing, receiving God’s grace, and experiencing friendship with Jesus and other Catholics within a local parish community. This is what Christian initiation is all about.
The Christian initiation process is made up of the following periods and steps:
- Period of Evangelization and Precatechumenate
- This is a time for inquiry and introduction to Gospel values, an opportunity for the beginnings of faith.
- First Step: Rite for Entrance into the Catechumenate
- This is the liturgical rite marking the beginning of the period of the catechumenate, as the inquirers express and the Church accepts their intention to respond to God’s call to follow the way of Christ.
- Period of the Catechumenate
- This is the time for the nurturing and growth of the catechumens’ faith and conversion to God.
- Second Step: Rite of Election or Enrollment of Names
- This is the liturgical rite by which the Church formally ratifies the catechumens’ readiness for the Sacraments of Initiation and the catechumens, now the elect, express the will to receive these Sacraments.
- Period of Purification and Enlightenment
- This is the time of reflection, prayer, and spiritual preparation immediately preceding the elects’ Initiation at the Easter Vigil. It coincides with the season of Lent.
- Third Step: Celebration of the Sacraments of Initiation
- This is the liturgical rite, usually integrated into the Easter Vigil, by which the elect are initiated through Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist.
- Period of Mystagogy
- This is the time in which the newly initiated Catholics experience being fully a member of the Christian community and are able to go deeper into the mysteries of the Catholic faith.
Those who have not been validly baptized are referred to as catechumens. They will typically be asked to experience all of the periods and steps outlined above, and will receive the sacraments that make them Catholic (Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist) at the Easter Vigil.
Those who have already been validly baptized are referred to as candidates. They will participate in only as much of the periods and steps (adapted to them) as they need, depending on their experience and knowledge of Christian belief and practice. They can receive Confirmation and the Eucharist at the Easter Vigil, or at any other time of the year, whenever they are ready.
You probably have many questions! See the frequently asked questions below:
FRequently Asked Questions
Getting Started
How do I become Catholic?
The first step is to contact a Catholic parish near you. Depending on your background and experience with Christianity, you may be asked to participate in some or all of the Christian initiation process (see the bulleted list above for the periods and steps of the process). This process is designed to help you learn about the Catholic faith, grow in your relationship with Jesus, and become part of the life of the Church. The process concludes with the celebration of the sacraments that make a person Catholic: Baptism (if needed), Confirmation, and Eucharist.
What can I expect when I contact a parish?
Typically, your first step will be a conversation with the person who coordinates the Christian initiation process. This is usually an informal meeting where you can ask questions and share your story. The coordinator will likely invite you to talk about your relationship with God, your religious background, and what has led you to explore the Catholic faith. The purpose of this conversation is not to test your knowledge or pressure you into making a commitment. Rather, it helps the coordinator understand your unique circumstances and discern how best to accompany you on your journey of faith.
How much does it cost to become Catholic?
The Christian initiation process itself is free. The Church does not charge people to become Catholic or to receive the sacraments of initiation. Some parishes may recommend books or other materials, but they should not require you to purchase anything. Financial concerns should never prevent someone from exploring the Catholic faith or becoming Catholic.
Do I have to be sure that I want to become Catholic before I contact a parish or start the process?
No. The beginning of the Christian initiation process is a time for inquiry, conversation, and discernment. You are welcome to ask questions, learn about the Catholic faith, and explore whether God may be calling you to become Catholic. Many people begin the process unsure of where it will lead. No one is expected to make a commitment at the very beginning. The Church respects the freedom of every person and recognizes that faith often grows gradually over time.
Do I have to agree with everything the Catholic Church teaches before I start?
No. The Christian initiation process exists precisely so that people can learn about the Catholic faith and ask questions. Many people begin the process with uncertainties, misunderstandings, or areas they disagree with or want to explore further. Honest questions and even criticisms are welcome. Sometimes, just learning more about why the Church believes a certain teaching is enough to come to a place of acceptance. The goal is to grow to where you can declare that you “believe and profess all that the Holy Catholic Church believes, teaches, and proclaims as revealed by God” (OCIA 491). But that takes time. It’s okay if you’re not there yet, especially in the beginning.
How long does it take to become Catholic?
There is no single answer to this question. The amount of time depends on how the parish has structured their initiation process and on your unique circumstances, including your religious background, your familiarity with Christianity, and the sacraments you have received. Some people need more time, while others need less. You are welcome to take many years, if you need to. The goal is not to complete a program as quickly as possible, but to ensure that you are adequately prepared to enter fully into the life of the Catholic Church. The parish you contact will help you discern an appropriate timeline.
What do I do if the calendar of sessions conflicts with my schedule?
We encourage you to not let scheduling concerns prevent you from contacting a parish. Every parish approaches Christian initiation somewhat differently, and many are able to accommodate individual circumstances. Depending on your situation, the parish may be able to offer alternative meeting times, supplemental formation, one-on-one accompaniment, or other options. The important thing is to start the conversation. Together with the parish coordinator of the initiation process , you can determine what is possible and what kind of preparation is most appropriate for you.
Common Concerns
Can I still become Catholic if I have previously been divorced and remarried?
In situations like this, the outcome depends on the facts of each individual case. Because every situation is unique, it is important to discuss your circumstances with the parish as early as possible. A previous marriage will need to be examined and resolved before a person can become Catholic. While this examination can add to the overall length of the initiation process, we encourage you to at least beginning the conversation. Let things unfold as they will. Take the time you need to take. The Church desires to help people and will accompany you through this journey to determine the appropriate next steps.
If I’ve already been baptized, do I need to be baptized again?
Usually not. The Catholic Church recognizes many Christian baptisms as valid. If you were baptized with water in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, you will ordinarily not be baptized again. During your initial conversations with the parish, someone will help determine whether your baptism is recognized by the Catholic Church. If questions arise regarding the fact of or the form of the baptism, the parish will assist you in gathering the necessary information.
What if I’ve never been baptized?
That’s okay! In fact, many people who enter the Christian initiation process have never been baptized. If you decide to become Catholic, you will prepare to receive Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist. These sacraments are normally celebrated together at the Easter Vigil, the Church’s most important liturgy of the year. Throughout the process, the parish community will accompany you as you learn about the faith and grow in your relationship with Jesus.
What if I’ve been away from church for many years?
You are not alone. Many people who explore the Catholic faith have been away from Church for years, or even decades. Some have difficult past experiences with the Church or with Christian people, while others simply drifted away. Whatever your story may be, you are welcome. The Christian initiation process is designed to meet people where they are and help them take the next step in their relationship with God. There is no need to be highly knowledgeable or have a wealth of religious experience before you begin.
Can my spouse, family member, or friend come with me?
Typically, yes. Many people find it helpful to bring a spouse, family member, or friend with them, especially in the early sessions. Some may even choose to formally participate in the process by becoming a catechumen or candidate (if they are not Catholic), or by becoming your sponsor or godparent (if they are Catholic). Whether or not they formally participate, their support can be an important source of encouragement as you embark on this journey.
Can my children become Catholic, too?
Yes. Children can also be initiated into the Catholic Church, though the nature of the initiation process depends on their age and individual circumstances. Children who have reached the age of reason (typically around age seven) usually participate in a process adapted specifically for them. When you contact a parish, be sure to mention your children so that parish staff can explain the options available and help determine the most appropriate path forward.
Can I receive Holy Communion before I become Catholic?
Ordinarily, no. Holy Communion is received by those who have been fully initiated into the Church. While waiting can sometimes be difficult, it is also an opportunity to deepen your desire for the Eucharist and spiritually prepare to receive this great gift.
Continuing the Journey
What happens if I begin the process and decide not to continue?
You are always free to step away. The Christian initiation process respects the freedom of every person. Some people discover that they need more time to discern God’s call, while others encounter circumstances that delay their reception into the Church. If you decide not to continue, speak honestly with those accompanying you in the process. They may be able to help alleviate your concerns. Remember that the goal of Christian initiation is not simply to complete a program, but to help you respond faithfully to God’s invitation. The Church will continue to welcome you and support you as you discern your next steps.
What happens after I become Catholic?
Becoming Catholic is not the end of the journey, it is the beginning of a new chapter. Newly initiated Catholics continue to grow through prayer, participation in the sacraments, study of the faith, service, and involvement in parish life. In order to emphasize that growth and maturity in the faith continue even after you become Catholic, there is a final period of the process after initiation called Mystagogy. During this time, newly initiated Catholics reflect more deeply on the sacraments they have received and enter more fully into the life of the Church.
If you have a question that isn’t answered here, you can contact us via the Contact Form on the [OCIA page] or email Nicholas Hardesty ([email protected]).
Find a Parish
The Christian initiation process always begins by contacting a Catholic parish, either one near you or one that you are interested in attending. Click the button below to find a parish and start the conversation about becoming Catholic!
