Question for Catholics

iVillage Member
Registered: 12-26-2005
Question for Catholics
4
Thu, 04-13-2006 - 9:51am

Hello, I'm new here and had a few questions.
I was raised Protestant but am inquiring about converting to Catholocism. Does every church have classes where you can learn about the Catholic church prior to conversion?
Any input appreciated.

svetlana

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-26-2003
Thu, 04-13-2006 - 1:36pm

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-09-2004
Tue, 04-18-2006 - 10:13am

I am Catholic and our place is pretty small and in a small town. We do have classes. Actually there are classes for all different age groups from 5 on up. Great classes to take to learn about the faith. And, if you do, don't feel obligated to join the catholic faith. It would be a good learning experience. I've been catholic all my life. My 5 yr old daughter is getting ready to start her classes. If you do take the classes, I'd love to hear your input!!!

Chris


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Mom to furangel, Chelse
iVillage Member
Registered: 06-16-2004
Thu, 06-29-2006 - 1:22am

Hi Svetlana,

Glad to hear of your interest in the Catholic faith. I hope this reply isn't too late.

I wasn't raised Catholic, but I converted 2 years ago.

As an adult looking to join the faith, you will need to take some classes before you can be baptized as a Catholic. They are offered by most churches and don't cost anything. The one you are looking for is the "RCIA" class (I think that's for Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults). My instructor/priest used the Catechisms of the Catholic Church (CCC) as the textbook and discussed a different theme every week (once a week for about 4 months before the baptism at the Easter Vigil).

You won't be forced to join if you find that it isn't right for you. If you do go for baptism, you'll need to get a sponsor (a practicing Catholic who is registered at a church somewhere) who can be there for the big night.

Hope this helps. Let me know how it goes next Easter.

Later,
Wild Marathoner

iVillage Member
Registered: 10-16-2003
Fri, 06-30-2006 - 6:26pm

Former Catholic. RCIA is the general classes held for people interested in converting, at least as far as I know in the Bay Area.

Wouldn't it be great if they offered online courses! ;)

Erica