This is the starting point. You don’t need to commit to anything—just come with your questions, curiosity, and an open heart. It’s a time to explore what the Catholic Church teaches and begin discovering if God is calling you to this faith.

2. Catechumenate or Candidate Formation - Learning and Growing

• If you are unbaptized, you become a catechumen.
• If you are already baptized in another Christian tradition, you are called a candidate.

During this phase, you’ll meet regularly with others on the same journey, learning about Scripture, Catholic beliefs, prayer, and the sacraments. It’s not just education—it’s formation of the heart and soul.

3. Rites and Rituals Along the Way

Throughout the process, you’ll participate in special liturgical rites that mark your progress and deepen your connection to the Church. These include:

• Rite of Acceptance (for catechumens)
• Rite of Welcome (for candidates)
• Rite of Election (for catechumens)
• Call to Continuing Conversion (for candidates)

These are powerful moments where the Church publicly affirms your journey and prays for you.

4. Sacrament of Initiation - Becoming Fully Catholic

At the Easter Vigil, the most sacred night of the Church year, you receive the sacraments that fully initiate you into the Catholic Church:

• Catechumens receive Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Eucharist.
• Candidates (already baptized) receive Confirmation and Holy Eucharist.

This is your formal welcome into the Catholic Church—a moment of profound grace and joy.

5. Mystagogy - Living the Faith

After Easter, you enter a period called mystagogy, where you reflect on your experience and begin living as a full member of the Catholic community.



This journey is deeply personal, and no one walks it alone. The Church walks with you, prays for you, and welcomes you with open arms. If you’re feeling drawn to the Catholic faith, that’s no accident—God may be inviting you to come home.

bhacker@smoy.org