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Becoming Catholic (RCIA)The path to becoming Catholic starts with the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults.
RCIA is a series of group sessions to educate and lead people through the process of entering the Catholic Church. -
What best describes you?
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New to Christianity
Considering Christianity, or simply want to learn more about it? RCIA can be that introduction.
RCIA begins as a no-commitment exploratory period where you learn, ask questions, and discuss the evidence, history, and morality of Christianity.
For those who decide to continue, RCIA culminates in baptism, confirmation, and first communion, with the participant then becoming a full practicing member of the Church established by Jesus Himself.
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Other Christian Denomination
Whether you're curious about the Catholic faith, or already committed to conversion, RCIA is an excellent opportunity to ask any questions openly and without judgement. You'll have a guide well-versed in Scripture and theology presenting the historical teachings of Christianity, and able to address differences and potential misconceptions between denominations.
Signing up for RCIA is not an obligation to convert to Catholicism, but can simply be to explore and learn more.
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Former or Unconfirmed Catholic
For those who were baptized, but never confirmed or have left the faith, RCIA is the path of re-entry.
During RCIA, we'll go through all aspects of Catholicism in a group setting, and fill in any gaps of information and teaching that you may be missing.
At the end, you'll receive any missing Sacraments and be re-initiated into the Church.
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RCIA Explained
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RCIA is an invitation to come and see. To look at what it means to be a Catholic Christian. To look at what it means to follow Jesus. To look at what changes of heart and mind must take place in your life if you wish to truly follow Jesus.
RCIA is a spiritual journey. Those seeking to become Catholic are asked to walk the journey of faith with members of the parish community. Discussions bring people together to share their experiences of God's love and presence in their lives and to grow in their understanding of God speaking to them through Scripture.
RCIA follows the pattern of the early Church in establishing a longer process of conversion and initiation, to ensure all members are well-informed on the doctrines and practices of Christianity. Participants are given ample time to spiritually prepare themselves before making such an important decision.
RCIA is not a class or a course of study. It is not a series of lectures on Catholic dogma and doctrine. It is, however, a conversion experience. It is hearing the good news that God loves us and is present to us today. It is the beginning of faith.
The RCIA journey means growth and deepening our relationship with God in faith. It is always about conversion, about transformation, about falling in love with Jesus and sharing that love with our neighbors and the world. It is never about mere information, but you will learn so much! We invite you to join us in learning more about Catholicism and becoming Catholic.
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RCIA Director
Audrey Aylmer
Email
audrey.aylmer@portlanddiocese.org
Phone
(207) 866-2155
Office Hours
Monday - Thursday: 8:30am - 12:30pm | 1:30pm - 3:00pm
Friday: 8:30am - 2:00pm
