For more information on becoming Catholic, contact Amanda Sullivan, Director of Faith Formation and Education at (773) 486-4300 or email asullivan@stjohnberchmans.org.  

The Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults is more commonly referred to as RCIA. This is the process adults and children who have reached the age of reason go through so that they can be fully initiated into the Catholic faith. This journey is for anyone who would like to be baptized, receive first Holy Communion and be confirmed. The RCIA process can also help you complete the necessary steps to become a member of the Catholic Church if you were baptized in another Christian denomination.

The RCIA process involves meeting 3 times per month, culminates with the reception of the sacraments of initiation at the Easter Vigil and offers the option to continue with meetings until Pentecost. As with all sacraments, it should be remembered that this process is a beginning, not an end. Meetings at Saint John Berchmans will occur on Thursday evenings leading up through Lent. During Lent the group attends the Liturgy of the Word portion of the Eucharist each Sunday and then departs to continue its studies and to reflect on the Word just proclaimed. The sacraments are conferred when the RCIA team, the sponsors and the individuals involved discern that they have adequately developed their faith and are ready to receive the sacraments.

The process of RCIA is a journey of faith, led by the Holy Spirit. It is a time to tell stories, ask questions, meet new friends and explore prayer and scripture. If you are interested in finding out more about the RCIA, if you know of anyone who might be a candidate for this journey, or if you are willing to help as a catechist or sponsor, please contact Amanda Sullivan. The RCIA is adapted for people eighteen years of age and older who have not been baptized. Readiness for the sacrament is discerned in conversation with the Director of Faith Formation.