The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the process the Church gives us for the formation of adults in the faith. Through RCIA you are able to share your faith journey with other, learn about the Catholic faith, and experience life in the Church community.

RCIA is for people who:

• Have never been baptized
• Have been baptized in another Christian faith
• Were baptized Catholic but did not complete their Sacraments of Initiation (Eucharist, Confirmation)
• Have been inactive in their Catholic faith for a long period of time and wish to be reconnected

The RCIA program begins in September and ends in Pentecost - approximately 9 months. While this may seem like a long time, please remember that this is a journey of faith that not only involves learning the material, but also preparing your heart for a new beginning. The decision to become Catholic is a major decision and should not be something rushed into.

No. This is your journey and we are simply helping you along the way. You can walk away from the process at any time if you decide this is not for you.

There are 4 Stages of the Journey:

1. Inquiry: This is the time for questions and answers about the Catholic faith.
2. The Catechumenate: Once you have decided to become Catholic, this is the time to learn the teachings and truths of the Catholic Church, while you deepen our relationship with God and the Church community.
3. Purification & Enlightenment: This stage takes place during the Lenten season. During this time, you take time to pray and reflect about your life as a Christian and your decision to become Catholic.
4. Reception & Mystagogy: Reception into the Catholic Church occurs during the Easter Vigil. The reception is followed by the mystagogy where you take time to reflect on the Mass and the Holy Eucharist.

Children under the age of 18 are not allowed in the class. There are age-specific classes for young children and teens who are not Catholic. For more information about these classes, you may contact the Parish Office at, 770-964-5804.

RCIA classes at St. Matthew begin in September and end in Pentecost.
If you would like to sign up for RCIA please complete the RCIA Registration Form online.
For more information about the program and meeting dates and times, please contact the Parish Office at 770-964-5804.