What is RCIA? 
RCIA (the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults) is a process to introduce the teachings of Jesus Christ and the Catholic Church He established to individuals who wish to learn more about Catholicism, including the opportunity to become Catholic through the Sacraments of Initiation. RCIA is a time of teaching, formation and conversion to come to know, love and serve God, the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

How do I sign up for RCIA? 
The first step is to make an appointment with Luisa Martini.  You can also download a registration form from this web site, this form is a useful tool so that we may serve you better and get to know you and your particular situation. You can fill it out and e-mail it or bring it in to Luisa at the parish office. 

When and where does RCIA meet together? 
We have a 6 week Spring Inquiry series, for those interested in learning more about Catholicism or interested in becoming Cahtolic. The Inquiry series will meet on Tuesday nights, beginning April 25th, from 7-8:30pm  in classroom 1 of the Religious Education building. This is a time to ask any questions you have about the Catholic faith and to learn some of the foundations of Catholicism. 
We will have a formal RCIA session beginning August 22, 2017. Our formal RCIA series meets Tuesday nights from 7-9pm at St Philip in the Community Life Center.

What is the format of the sessions? 
The sessions begin with prayer, followed by teaching, question and answer, small group discussion and a potluck dinner. 

What is the cost for attending RCIA? 
There is no cost to you to attend RCIA. St. Philip the Apostle Catholic Parish provides all that is needed for the sessions. 

May I bring my spouse/fiancé to the sessions? 
Yes, you may. We encourage your spouse/fiancé to attend the sessions with you. 

Is childcare available during RCIA sessions? 
Yes.  Childcare is available at our nursery. The cost is $5 per family for use of the Nursery. Call Sue at 972-219-7626 for more information and for reservations.

If I have been baptized in another church, do I need to be baptized again? 
In most cases, you do not need to be baptized again. The Catholic Church requires that you were baptized with water, in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. We will need a copy of your baptismal certificate or other proof of baptism from the church where you were baptized.  Proof of baptism may include a letter from the church, a copy of the membership record indicating that you were baptized, etc. 

I was told I need a sponsor who is a baptized and confirmed Catholic, in a valid marriage, is in good standing in the Catholic Church and who will attend the sessions with me. What if I don’t know anyone who could do that? 
Don’t worry about it. We have people who volunteer to fulfill the sponsor role. They will attend the sessions with you each Tuesday. 

Do I have to attend every session? 
Our desire is to have you attend all sessions. RCIA is certainly a place where you will learn about what the Catholic Church believes and teaches; however, it is much more than that. It is a process of getting to know Jesus Christ and growing together in community. RCIA is a process of conversion to a life with Christ. This process takes time and commitment on your part. 

How many sessions can I miss? 
RCIA is a building-block process and each session builds on the one before. However, we realize that there may be situations which would cause someone to miss. Therefore, absences are handled on a case-by-case basis. If you must miss a session, arrangements can be made to provide you with a copy of the notes from the session. 

Can a Catholic attend to learn more about their faith? 
Yes, we would love to have you join us to learn more about your Catholic faith! 

Who can I call for more information or clarification about RCIA at St. Philip? 
You can call Luisa Martini (972) 219-1686 or e-mail LuisaM@stphilipcc.org with any questions or to set up a time to meet in person.