How to Become Catholic Without RCIA

It is generally required to follow the RCIA process for joining the Catholic Church.

RCIA, or the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults, is a process for adults that would like to join the Catholic Church. The process involves classes that explore various topics within the church and allow individuals to express their doubts and concerns before officially joining. RCIA is generally required for individuals in need of baptism, individuals baptized under a different Christian denomination or individuals baptized Catholic that never received Communion. Some people have extenuating circumstances which prevent them from committing to the RCIA process. There are certain steps to allow these people to join the Catholic Church without RCIA.

Instructions

1. Find a local Catholic parish. Your parish should be close enough to attend mass weekly and a place where you feel comfortable.

2. Talk to the priest or RCIA coordinator and explain your reasoning for not being able to join the formal RCIA process.

3. Arrange regular meetings with a qualified parishioner or the priest. Parishes can arrange a private catechesis that caters to difficult schedules or situations. Smaller parishes may have you meet with the priest weekly, while larger parishes will have you meet with your sponsor weekly.

Tips & Warnings

• If scheduling is an issue, it is possible to attend RCIA classes at a different parish than you would like to join. Talk to the RCIA organizers at both parishes.

References

• Our Lady of Perpetual Help Living Our Second Century of Cat: What is RCIA?
• RCNet: What is RCIA?