Joining the Catholic Community
Welcome to St. Bartholomew Parish Community. It is a privilege
for us to present to you a brief summary of the way one would
journey together with us in becoming a member of the Catholic
Church.
Becoming a Catholic
Do you want to become a Roman Catholic? Then RCIA may be for
you… Are you a member of another faith and wish to know
more about the Catholic faith? Are you an adult who was never
baptized or never received first Communion or Confirmation? Do
you wish to be a fully initiated member of the Catholic Church?
The answer to all of these questions is RCIA! (This is not the
process for those baptized Catholics who received first Eucharist
but missed out on Confirmation).
What is RCIA?
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults is a process of study,
exploration, and faith formation, with specific liturgical and
Para liturgical rites, for seekers and inquirers. Seekers and
inquirers are non-baptized adults or children over the age of
seven (7) who desire to be fully initiated into the Roman Catholic
Church and/or baptized adult Christians who desire full communion
in the Roman Catholic Church.
What is Catholics
Returning Home?
If you are a Catholic who has been away from the Church, this
invitation is for YOU! No matter how long you have been away
and for whatever reason, we invite you to consider renewing your
relationship with the Catholic Church. Catholics Returning Home
is a safe harbor for returning Catholics to explore and share
their faith with others. For more information please contact
Ingrid Pera, ext. 14 or ingrid@barts.org.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Who leads the RCIA?
Ingrid Pera coordinates the RCIA and is assisted by a dedicated
team of parishioners who are trained to help in various areas
of the formation process.
If I begin, am I obligated to become
a Catholic?
There is no obligation to make any kind of commitment nor is
there pressure exerted on anyone to become a Catholic. We respect
the conscience and decision of every inquirer. Because of your
association with us we would hope that you would gain a deeper
appreciation and understanding of Catholic beliefs and practices.
Is there a fee?
No, the RCIA process is free of charge.
I think I'd like to begin but I'm still
hesitant….
If there is some concern or reason that you are reluctant to
begin the RCIA, please contact Ingrid Pera to discuss your particular
concern or situation. Of course, there will be no obligation
and confidentiality will be respected.
How does one become Catholic?
Most Catholics are born into Catholic families and gradually
come to share in the full sacramental life of the Church. Others,
who may have been previously baptized in a non-Catholic Christian
Church, have become Catholic after making a solemn profession
of faith.
If you would like to set-up an initial
interview, contact Ingrid Pera at 347-0701, ext. 14. Please fill
out an information form to
help you share your journey with our RCIA coordinator. If you
have any questions, or would like aditional information, feel
free to contact Ingrid at 347-0701, ext. 14 or ingrid@barts.org.
Questions or feedback? Please email
stbarts@barts.org.
