There are several ways. The Catholic Church warmly welcomes new members and tries to provide appropriate spiritual formation according to each person’s needs at any time throughout the year. In general, though, people who are becoming Catholic fall into three categories: infants and young children; people who, whether baptized or unbaptized, have had little or no religious training in the Christian faith; and baptized people who have been active members in other Christian denominations.
Infants and Young Children
In the case of young children, it is the parents who prepare for the baptism and make the baptismal promises on their children’s behalf. Parents of children younger than 7 years old should contact the parish office for information on baptismal preparation.
Persons with Little Christian Formation
For these persons the full Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the way into the Catholic Church. The RCIA is primarily for unbaptized adults, but adapted Rites may also be celebrated for baptized, uncatechized adults. Click here to learn more about RCIA /rcia
Baptized Christians Who Have a Solid Formation in Faith
These persons need an understanding of Catholic belief, an experience of Catholic liturgy/liturgical year, and an acquaintance with the Catholic community. They are to be admitted as quickly as possible to the Eucharistic table. These persons will not need to enter the full RCIA process, but may take advantage of RCIA sessions and adult faith formation opportunities until they are prepared to make a Profession of Faith and be Confirmed as Catholics.