The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the process whereby adults enter the Catholic Church. However, RCIA is more than just a process, it is a journey of faith that involves the seeking of the Truth, namely, Jesus Christ, and a conversion of heart.

The primary sources of study are Sacred Scripture, the Catechism of the Catholic Church and the texts/prayers of the Church's liturgy.     

RCIA is composed of four periods: 1) Period of Evangelization and Precatechumenate (also known as Inquiry), 2) Period of Catechumenate, 3) Period of Purification and Enlightenment and 4) Period of Postbaptismal Catechesis (also known as Mystagogy). All are welcome to participate in the weekly classes. Every person progresses through the different periods at their own pace, and no one is required or expected to receive Initiation into the Catholic Church. 

For more information about RCIA, please contact St. Thomas Aquinas Staff (361-221-1103).