The Catholic Church is a faith family of over a billion people throughout the world. As a global faith, the Church embodies the faith journeys and traditions of many peoples. Our individual faith journey enhances the Church and radiates God’s saving actions in our lives.
The Church recognizes that each faith journey is unique and that God meets us where we are, not the other way around. Scripture tells us, and our lives confirm, that God encounters us through ordinary people and events. These encounters draw us to something deeper … and that something is relationship with the Holy One.
If you find yourself contemplating what a relationship with God, and the church, means in your life we invite you to explore those questions with us. All of the modes listed below begin with a time of inquiry and questioning with the Director of Faith Formation, Susie Osacho ([email protected] or 612-869-2426, ext 120)
Not Baptized?
A period of study and prayer (of no specified length) is designed for those new to the Christian faith and are brought into the Church through the sacrament of baptism. This journey is known as the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA).
Baptized in a Protestant Tradition?
Baptism is a sacrament honored by most Christian traditions. If you were baptized in another Christian tradition but now find your home in the Catholic Church we prepare you to enter into the full communion of the Catholic Church. This ritual is known as the Reception into the Full Communion of the Catholic Church.
Baptized Catholic, but Not Confirmed?
Many Catholics celebrated the sacrament of baptism as infants but for various reasons did not celebrate confirmation. The preparation needed to celebrate confirmation varies with each individual. Confirmation is celebrated at a Sunday liturgy when the candidate feels ready.
Catholic, but Have Been Away for a While?
We all experience times when we feel cut off from God, or from the church. However, for many they are permanent or decades long. If you find yourself returning to the Church after time away and have questions, we are here to welcome you home and walk with you as you discern what God is calling you toward.
We embrace a questioning faith. Blind faith is no faith at all. God wants to be in dialogue and an authentic relationship with us. Bring your questions, fears, concerns, and joys. The important element to all of this is the journey. There is no expectation that you will complete the process or become Catholic. The expectation is that you ask the questions that are necessary for you and your relationship with God. We are here to support you in your time of discernment, no matter the outcome.
Practicing Catholic, Wanting to Learn More?
Another element of the RCIA process includes sponsors (faith mentors) who walk with inquirers. If you are looking to learn more about our faith - this could be an important call to answer! OR maybe there is a part of the Catholic faith that you have a deep passion about - we are looking for fully formed Catholics to be a part of our RCIA Team. Make a connection with Director of Faith Formation Susie Osacho.
In all things, though, we ask for your prayers—as we pray for you—to the glory of God.