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Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults
RCIA / Adult Initiation
A journey of faith for adults exploring the Catholic Church — whether unbaptised, baptised in another tradition, or seeking to complete your initiation.
Welcome
Are You Called to Become Catholic?
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the Church's ancient and beautiful process for welcoming adults into the Catholic faith. Whether you have never been baptised, were baptised in another Christian tradition, or are a baptised Catholic who has not yet received Confirmation or First Eucharist — this journey is for you.
RCIA is not a course or a class to pass. It is a journey of conversion — a gradual unfolding of faith, community, and personal encounter with Christ. You move at your own pace, supported by a team of parishioners, a sponsor, and the wider parish community.
Our 2026–2027 program begins in September 2026 and culminates at the Easter Vigil in April 2027. Weekly sessions are held on Tuesday evenings at the Ron Dyer Centre, with Sunday Mass attendance encouraged throughout.
Open to All
Unbaptised, baptised elsewhere, or incomplete Catholic initiation — all are welcome.
Community & Support
Walk alongside fellow inquirers, a personal sponsor, and a dedicated parish team.
The Journey
The Four Stages of RCIA
The RCIA follows the Church's ancient pattern of gradual initiation — each stage marked by a special rite and a deepening of faith.
Inquiry (Pre-Catechumenate)
A time of asking questions, exploring the Catholic faith, and discerning whether this journey is right for you. No commitment required — come as you are.
Catechumenate
After the Rite of Acceptance, you enter a period of formation — learning about Scripture, the sacraments, prayer, and Catholic life through weekly sessions and community involvement.
Purification & Enlightenment
During Lent, you enter an intense period of spiritual preparation. The Scrutinies and the Presentation of the Creed and Lord's Prayer deepen your readiness for the Easter sacraments.
Mystagogy
After receiving Baptism, Confirmation, and First Eucharist at the Easter Vigil, you enter a period of reflecting on the mysteries you have experienced and living your new life in Christ.
2026–2027 Program
Your Journey at a Glance
From your first enquiry to the Easter Vigil — here is what the year ahead looks like.
Initial Inquiry
Contact the parish office or submit the enquiry form below. We'll arrange a friendly, no-pressure conversation with our RCIA Coordinator.
Program Begins
Weekly sessions commence on Tuesday evenings, 7:00–8:30pm at the Ron Dyer Centre. All materials provided.
Rite of Acceptance
Those ready to commit are welcomed into the Catechumenate during Sunday Mass. Family and friends warmly invited.
Retreat Day
A full-day retreat for all candidates and catechumens, focusing on prayer, community, and personal reflection.
Lent Begins — Scrutinies
The period of Purification & Enlightenment begins. Special rites at Sunday Mass to strengthen your spirit.
Baptism, Confirmation & First Eucharist
The culmination of your journey — receiving the sacraments of initiation at the Easter Vigil, the most beautiful liturgy of the year.
What You Will Learn
Areas of Formation
Our weekly sessions cover the breadth of Catholic faith and life — from Scripture to social justice.
Scripture & The Word of God
Explore the Bible as the living Word of God. Learn how Catholics read and pray with Scripture in daily life.
The Sacraments
Discover the seven sacraments as encounters with Christ's grace — signs of God's love made visible in our lives.
Prayer & Worship
Learn the rich tradition of Catholic prayer — from the Rosary to the Liturgy of the Hours, and personal prayer.
Catholic Social Teaching
Understand the Church's call to justice, peace, and care for the poor — living faith in action.
Church History & Tradition
Journey through 2,000 years of Catholic history — the saints, councils, and traditions that shape our faith today.
Morality & Christian Living
Reflect on how Catholic moral teaching guides us to live with integrity, compassion, and hope.
What We Ask of You
- A sincere desire to explore or deepen your Catholic faith
- Attend weekly Tuesday evening sessions (7:00–8:30pm)
- Participate in Sunday Mass regularly throughout the journey
- Attend the full-day retreat and special rites during Sunday Mass
- Meet occasionally with your sponsor for prayer and reflection
- Engage openly and honestly with the materials and community
What to Expect
- Friendly, welcoming sessions with no pressure or judgement
- A mix of teaching, discussion, prayer, and reflection
- All materials provided — Bible, catechism, workbook, and handouts
- A personal sponsor assigned to walk with you throughout
- Integration into parish life — Mass, social events, and ministries
- A beautiful Easter Vigil celebration where you receive the sacraments
No fee. The RCIA program is offered freely. All materials, retreat costs, and celebration expenses are covered by the parish.
Walking Together
The Role of a Sponsor
A sponsor is a practising Catholic who accompanies you on your RCIA journey. They are not a teacher or examiner — they are a friend, a witness, and a companion in faith.
Your sponsor attends sessions with you when possible, meets with you between sessions for prayer and conversation, and presents you to the community at key rites. Most importantly, they model what it means to live as a Catholic disciple.
Common Questions
RCIA FAQs
Answers to the questions we hear most often from adults considering the Catholic Church.
Get in Touch
Make an Enquiry
Curious about becoming Catholic? Submit your details and our RCIA Coordinator will contact you for a friendly, no-pressure conversation.
Questions About the RCIA?
Our RCIA Coordinator is happy to speak with you confidentially about where you are on your faith journey. No question is too small, and no commitment is required.