RCIA

The Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults is the process for people thinking about becoming Catholic. By attending weekly gatherings with like-minded individuals, you are able to discern for yourself if Catholicism is right for you.Through readings, presentations, and discussions we learn about Catholic doctrine and our own place within the Catholic Christian tradition.

Those entering the Catholic Church receive the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Communion at the Easter Vigil Mass. For more details, please call the Parish Office at 706-561-8678.

RCIA FAQs
Who can join the RCIA? 
Any person who is either an unbaptized person or a baptized Christian of another faith, may participate in the RCIA.

What is the actual process of the RCIA?
The RCIA process includes several months of classes of inquiry and study during which interested individuals can learn about the core beliefs of the Catholic Church, its moral teachings and liturgical practices, and become acquainted with the life of the parish community. Individuals can ask questions of the RCIA team members and the team can assist the inquirer with understanding more about the spiritual journey they are undertaking.

How long does the RCIA process last?
RCIA classes are held weekly beginning in September and continuing until Pentecost of the following year. Participants are welcomed into the Catholic Church at the Easter Vigil.

What if I am not ready to become Catholic at that time?
Any participant in the RCIA process can choose not to become Catholic at Easter time. It is quite common for individuals to continue their discernment and study of the Catholic faith for an additional year or more. The Church greatly respects the time each person needs for conversion and decision, and one should not feel pressured to become Catholic before one is ready. 

Does anyone help me during the process?
The RCIA team, which includes a priest from St. Anne’s, is always willing to help. During the process, individuals will be required to select a sponsor or godparent, who is a practicing Catholic, who will serve as a spiritual friend and guide during the process and in one’s future life as a Catholic Christian. Godparents and sponsors are welcome to attend classes and activities with the individual. If the individual does not know anyone who is a Catholic Christian, the RCIA team can help to find a suitable sponsor for them. Spouses or fiancées may assist the participant, but are not encouraged to act as their sponsors or godparents. 

What documents are required for becoming Catholic?
Baptized Christians of most denominations will need a copy of their baptismal record. Copies of marriage certificates and decrees of annulment in the Church may be required if appropriate.

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming Catholic or learning more about the Catholic faith, St. Anne Church will be offering RCIA classes (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) starting in September.
Express Interest in RCIA

The following online resources may also prove helpful along your faith journey:
 Catechism of the Catholic Church
 Catholic News Service
 CatholicTV.com
 Diocese of Savannah
 United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB)
 Vatican
 Word On Fire