Topic:  How do I become a Catholic?

Source of this posting: Moderator response

Date originally posted: July 26, 2004

Moderator who originally posted this source: Kathy Martyn

Question:   I grew up in a house where we accepted God and talked about it, but never really attended a church on a steady basis. as I have grown up I moved and attended a catholic school. at the time I was young about 12, I was in 7th grade, and didn't understand the beliefs and practices of the catholic church. I am now 17 have been trying out, going to different churches and most recently the Methodist church. I don't seem to fit in any where. then I attend a catholic mass after my grandfather had passed away and then just a week later attended another mass with my girlfriends family. I went home a looked for some of the answers I had questions about in the catholic religion. I found them and I think I have found my place. I want to know what my next step is to becoming a member of the catholic church or what I should do. thank you, josh

Answer: 

Thank you for your question! First, I would encourage you to continue to attend Mass on a weekly basis. Continue to pray daily for God's guidance. As soon as you return to school make an appointment with your Campus Minister to discuss this matter. If you had not previously been Baptized in the Cahtolic Church (I am not completely clear on this from your question) you will be directed to RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults). This is the process whereby non-Catholics discern their call to the Catholic faith. You will learn more about Catholic tradition and beliefs. If after going through this process you are sure you want to become Catholic you will be received into the Church at Eastertime. The Church wants folks to be sure they are truly called to become Catholic. If you have not been previously been Baptized, you will receive the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist all at the same time. If you were Baptized in a Protestant faith, you will receive the Sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist. The Catholic Church recognizes all Baptisms.

If you were Baptized Catholic, your Campus Minister will direct you to the appropriate source depending on your previous level of catechesis to resume full communion with the Church.

I wish you the best in your faith journey.