Things Needed to Convert to Catholicism
How do you convert to Catholicism? The process is different for every person depending upon his or her background. One person may undergo more training and take part in more rites than another. This article focuses on the general course of conversion for the unbaptized, as it will vary depending upon former training and other factors. If you are interested, please contact a local parishioner to find out where you would begin your path to conversion.
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A Stage of Inquiry
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The Inquiry Stage is the first step encountered in the process of conversion. During this time, you learn about Catholicism and decide whether or not it is right for you. There is no specific length of time for this stage; rather, it ends when you decide if you are ready to embrace Catholic teachings and move forward to the next step in the process, or do not wish to continue on the path to conversion.
Becoming a Catechumen
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The next step is called Catechumenate, and is marked by the Rite of Acceptance. At this point, those who are not baptized express their desire to become Christian, and are now called Catechumens. During this period, catechumens learn about apostolic works and Catholic life, among other subjects. This period tends to last approximately one year; however, the length of time depends upon your personal readiness and how much you feel you have learned.
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Rite of Election and Call to Continuing Conversion
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On the first Sunday of Lent, the Rite of Election and Call to Continuing Conversion will be performed. When you express your desire at this point to move forward and become initiated, the Church will officially certify you as ready to receive the rite of initiation, Confirmation and the Eucharist. From this point on, you are no longer known as a catechumen; rather, you have become one of the elect.
Purification, Enlightenment and The Scrutinies
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A period of Purification and Enlightenment corresponding to Lent is intended as a time of retreat. After this, your catechesis will focus on the Scrutinies, which are rites focusing on soul-searching and penitence. Their purpose is to bring out the soul's positive qualities while mending its broken, sinful aspects. The church also presents the Apostles' Creed and the Lord's Prayer; you and the rest of the elect will recite these when the time for initiation arrives.
Initiation
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Initiation usually takes place during Easter Vigil. It is celebrated with a special Mass, during which the elect are baptized with water, given confirmation and receive the Holy Eucharist. At the completion of these acts, you are now Catholic and can be received into full communion with the Catholic church. A fourth period called Mystagogy takes place from Initiation to Pentecost Sunday, during which new initiates reflect upon their journey and ponder their future in the church.
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