The Baptism of Adults

Following the spread of Christianity in the first few generations after the resurrection of Jesus, the Catholic Church developed a process to prepare adults for entry into the Church through the sacraments of initiation: Baptism, confirmation, and the Eucharist.  Today, the Church calls this process the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults or RCIA. Through this process, adults (those over the seven with the use of reason) who express interest in becoming Catholic are welcomed into a special community within the parish to learn about the teachings of Jesus and his Church, to have their questions answered, learn about the new life in Christ offered by baptism, and prepare for the reception of the sacraments of initiation at the Easter Vigil.

The Cathedral parish has two groups for Christian initiation, depending on the age of the candidate. In both cases, however, the process for Christian initiation is the same, proceeding through various periods and steps:

• Period: Inquiry

• Step: Acceptance into the Order of Catechumens

• Period: Catechumenate

• Step: Rite of Election

• Period: Purification and Enlightenment

• Step: Celebration of the Sacraments of Initiation

• Period: Mystagogy

Adults over the age of 18 who are interested in learning more about Jesus Christ and the Catholic Church are encouraged to register for our parish’s inquiry gatherings. Complete the simple registration form. Nothing more than an interest in learning more about Catholicism is needed to begin.  There is no pressure, only welcome and support as you freely journey towards union with Christ and his Church.

Children between ages 7 and 17 are encouraged to contact Liliana Bobadilla at the parish office (209–463–1305) during regular office hours (M–F, 8:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. and 1:00–5:00 p.m.).