What is RCIA?

RCIA is the official process of the Catholic Church for welcoming and forming adults who are interested in becoming Catholic or who wish to complete their initiation into the Church. It is not simply a class — it’s a journey of faith that involves learning, prayer, reflection, and active participation in the life of the Church.

Who is it for?

RCIA is designed for adults who want a welcoming, no-pressure place to explore and grow in the Catholic faith, including:

• Adults who have never been baptised and are exploring Christianity

• Adults baptised in another Christian tradition who wish to become Catholic

• Catholics who have been baptised but have not yet received Confirmation or the Eucharist

• Anyone curious about the Church and wanting to learn more

No prior knowledge is required — RCIA meets people where they are and walks with them step by step.

What does RCIA cover?

RCIA offers a broad, meaningful introduction to Catholic belief and practice, including:

• Who God is (the Trinity)

• Jesus Christ and his role in salvation

• Scripture and Sacred Tradition

• The Creed — what Catholics believe

• Mary and the saints

• The Sacraments:

  • Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist

  • Healing: Reconciliation, Anointing of the Sick

  • Service: Matrimony, Holy Orders

• Prayer and worship — how Catholics pray, the meaning of the Mass

• The liturgical year and its seasons (Advent, Christmas, Lent, Easter, Ordinary Time)

• Life in the Catholic community: moral teaching, Catholic social teaching, and service to others

How does RCIA work?

RCIA typically unfolds in these stages:

• Inquiry (Precatechumenate) — A time to ask questions, explore faith, and learn more about Christianity and the Catholic Church.

• Catechumenate — A period of deeper learning, formation, and spiritual growth.

• Purification & Enlightenment — Spiritual preparation (usually during Lent).

• Sacraments of Initiation — Celebrated at the Easter Vigil when candidates may receive Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist.

• Mystagogy — Ongoing growth after Easter, focusing on living out the Catholic life and integrating the sacraments into daily faith.

What’s expected of participants?

• A willingness to learn and ask questions

• Openness to prayer and reflection

• Regular attendance at RCIA sessions

• Participation in Sunday Mass

RCIA is supported by the parish community — you won’t walk this journey alone.

Why join RCIA?

• To explore the Catholic faith in a supportive, welcoming environment

• To grow in relationship with God and the Church

• To become fully initiated into the Catholic community (if you choose)

• To deepen your understanding of Christian life and purpose

RCIA respects each person’s individual journey — there is no obligation to become Catholic.

Interested or want to learn more?

Please get in touch:

Lee Russell — 021 560 071 CPH Office — (06) 878 7774 admin@hastings.parish.nz

All are welcome. Questions are encouraged — faith grows through seeking.