Blessed Sacrament Church at 305 E Street, South Charleston, WV 25303 US - How to Become a Catholic
| How to Become a Catholic |
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA)is a process through which those interested in becoming a Catholic learn more about the Catholic Church. The RCIA continues throughout the year with no established date to start the process. The length of this special process varies with each individual. This spiritual journey involves weekly meetings with other inquirers in community with Church members and weekly attendance at Sunday Mass. Steps along the way are celebrated with the community in liturgical rites or rituals: The Rite of Acceptance, the Rite of Election, and the Celebration of the Sacraments of Initiation. Preparation for these rites is divided into three periods: The Period Pre-Catechumenate or Inquiry, the Period Catechumenate and the Period of Purification and Enlightenment. The final period of the RCIA process, the Period of Mystagogy, continues from Easter through Pentecost and an additional church calendar year. Children of catechetical age (seven years and older) may also learn about the Catholic Church. Experiences are tailored to their level of understanding so they, too, will be initiated into the community in the same liturgical rites as adults. If you have questions or would like to inquire about the Catholic Church, please call Jeanne Haas at 304-744-5523.