|
As we grow in our relationship with God, we can be overwhelmed with questions about who God is, what He is and who we are. Sometimes we can become distracted by these fundamental questions, and maybe, even tempted to give up, but, if we persevere, then we will find our true and lasting happiness.
Faith is a life-long journey. It does not end once we have decided that we want to become a Catholic, in fact, it is just beginning! We are constantly learning more and more about our faith, and our relationship with God. This page, offers some guidance in exploring our new faith in God, and how we can support you as you embark on your Journey of Faith. |
Maybe someone among us here is thinking: my sin is so great, I am as far from God as the younger son in the parable (of the Prodigal Son), my unbelief is like that of Thomas; I don’t have the courage to go back, to believe that God can welcome me and that he is waiting for me, of all people. But God is indeed waiting for you; he asks of you only the courage to go to him." |
|
As you may expect, there is a process to becoming a Catholic. Although it may look like a simple process, in reality it may take someone a number of years between the initial idea of becoming a Catholic to the point of reception into the Church. This is because at every stage of the process we have to remember that this is all part of our journey of faith, and what God wants to do for us in our lives. At every stage of the process you go at your pace.
Inquiry - The first part of the process is learning, in a gentle way, about what the Catholic Church believes and teaches. At this stage it would be good to come to church to Mass to see how we celebrate our faith. Deciding - This is a formal stage where someone decides to become a Catholic. They become Catechumens and begin a more formal period of learning about the faith of the Church. Preparation - It is not all about learning and remembering everything that has ever been taught by the Catholic Church. Becoming a Catholic is also about building a deeper relationship with God. As part of the process there is a period of time learning about prayer and getting ready to become a Catholic. Initiation - Only when someone is ready and after they have spent some time reflecting on what Catholics believe does the ceremony of Baptism and Reception into the Catholic Church takes place. This is day of great joy for those who become Catholic but also for the community as we welcome another member. |
|
|
What do I do next?If you are thinking about becoming Catholic you might be thinking what shall I do next? Below are a few suggestions that you might like to think about.
Pray - If you are thinking of becoming Catholic it is possibly because the Holy Spirit is trying to say something to your heart. Talk to God, ask Him to help you in your life, ask him to help your faith to grow. Come to Mass - Mass is celebrated on Sundays and in the week. See how we celebrate our faith and pray together. Sunday Mass is especially important for Catholics because we gather as a community of faith to worship God together. Non-Catholics are not allowed to receive Holy Communion but you are welcome to come forward for a blessing. Talk to a priest- Have a chat with a priest, tell him about why you are thinking of becoming a Catholic and that you are interested in beginning the process. You might have to arrange an appointment so that the priest can tell you more about how to become a Catholic and answer any questions you may have. Formation - These are the classes, advertised in the Newsletter, you will have to attend to learn more about our faith and prepare in an intentional way for becoming a Catholic. It is not like school, they are very gentle and go at the pace of those who come. |
|
|
Prayer for becoming Catholic
Jesus, send your Holy Spirit into my heart in this moment. Guide my life to know your plans for me. Enter my heart now. Many different memories, emotions and experiences lie hidden there. Please come with your light. Thank you that you are near. Give me courage to respond to the invitation which is being given to me to become a Catholic. Amen. |
