Becoming a Catholic

As Catholics we believe that God holds each and every person within the fullness of love. Many people pass through life hardly aware of this mystery while others feel the call to respond to this love within a praying community. We welcome those who seek to explore God’s love within the Catholic Church and we endeavour to initiate them into our faith in a respectful and loving manner.

For adults, the usual way of becoming a Catholic is through the Rite of Christian Initiation or RCIA. This programme is parish based. Those interested join a group of fellow seekers who are guided by members of the local parish to discover the richness and mysteries of our faith. The programme usually takes about 12 months but can be shortened or lengthened to individual needs. Initiation, that is the celebration of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist, ordinarily takes place during the Easter Vigil liturgy each year.

If you are interested in finding out more about becoming a Catholic, please contact your local parish. You can find their contact details on our Parishes & Regions page.

The Catholic Church baptises infants and small children that parents desire to have baptised. For such baptisms, please contact your local parish.