How to Become a Catholic

Catholicism is one of the oldest religious institutions in the history of the world. If you decide that you want to become Catholic, you will be joining a large faith community with a prominent presence around the world. Because this community is so large, you will likely encounter many people who are willing to assist you as you learn how to become Catholic.

Instructions

1. Read about Catholic doctrine to give yourself a basic understanding of what it means to be Catholic. This will be helpful as you move through the next few steps.

2. Talk to your friends who are Catholic. Ask them if you can join them for church. If you don't have any Catholic friends, go online to find a church in your community. You can call the priest and tell him you are interested in becoming Catholic and you would like to attend services.

3. Ask questions about the church. You can talk to church members or the priest. Some churches will offer group meetings for people who are exploring Catholicism and considering becoming Catholic.

4. Decide if you want to become Catholic. If you decide to become Catholic then you enter into period of Catechumenate and you are referred to as a Catechumen. This period usually lasts less than a year, but it can last for many years. During this period you will be assigned a sponsor to serve as a spiritual guide.

5. Participate in the rite of election. This is when your name is written in the book of people who will receive the sacraments. The rite of election usually occurs on the first Sunday of Lent.

6. Enter into a period of reflection which lasts throughout the Lenten Season. During this period, the good qualities of your soul are strengthened and the weak qualities are healed.

7. Receive the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist on the evening before Easter Day.

8. Complete the process by entering in the period of Mythology. During this period you will strengthen your Catholic faith. You will also be known as a neophyte. This will last though the next Easter season.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have already been baptized into another denomination of Christianity, then you will go through the period of Catechumenate, but you will be referred to as a candidate rather than a catechumen.

Resources

• For a list of parishes in your city go to parishesonline.com.