Debbie Fujiyama, Coordinator

The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (R.C.I.A.) is a process by which adults and older children who have not yet been baptized are introduced into the life of the Catholic Church through catechesis and liturgy. This also includes those who are converting from other Christian religions as well as baptized Catholics who need to complete the Sacrament of Initiation. Children who were not baptized as infants are also initiated through an adapted process of this rite.

R.C.I.A. is a spiritual journey that includes a period of reflection, prayer, instruction, discernment, and formation. There is no set timetable. Those who join the process are encouraged to go at their pace and take as much time as they need. However, on average, this process takes between eight to twelve months, but it can take up to two years or more. When an adult becomes a Catholic, all three Sacraments - Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation - are received at the same time.