Joining the Church

The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is offered in conjunction with Immaculate Conception Church in Clarion and is intended for those seeking initiation into the Catholic faith, those seeking the Sacrament of Confirmation as an adult, and those simply interested in learning more about the Catholic faith. As an Inquirer, you will not be asked if you would like to make a formal commitment to join the Catholic Church until well into the program. The RCIA process is as much a time of prayer and discernment as it is of learning about the Catholic faith. Individuals in the RCIA experience a great deal of freedom to seek the truth as it is revealed to them in the stirrings of their conscience. 

The RCIA process takes place within an environment of community. People who enter into the process of initiation have a Catholic sponsor of their choosing who is able to answer questions and be a source of support throughout the individual's discernment. Candidates for initiation into the Church journey through a period of religious education and prayer that usually takes about eight months. Some choose to become Catholic. Some do not. Regardless of a person's individual choice, the community is supportive of the movement of an individual's conscience.

God is always calling us to a deeper life of faith. Consider sharing in a process which can help deepen your faith, raise your awareness of the religious traditions of the Catholic Church, and lead you to a more authentic sense of self. Perhaps God is calling you to share in the life of the Church.

Call the Campus Ministry Office or contact us by email if you are interested in further information.