Becoming Catholic: Resources for Candidates

Although many of the resources provided for catechumens will certainly helpful for candidates, some particular resources are especially helpful for those who have already been baptized and are therefore already incorporated into the Body of Christ.

For the Sunday sessions, the readings to be used are found in your Living the Word book. The full text of the readings for each day of the week may also be found online at the USCCB. You are encouraged to read and medidate on the readings, as well as reading the reflections given in Living the Word, for the upcoming Sunday before hearing the reading proclaimed at the Mass. We will also be using the United States Catholic Catechism for Adults for our extended catechesis. You can find the schedule of topics as a PDF.

As you continue your journey of conversion, you are invited to deepen an inner adherence to the Church, where you will find the fullness of your baptism RCIA, 477). Therefore, in a special way, you are encouraged to study, reflect, and share with your sponsor how your baptism will be lived out in a "life of faith that is grounded in the meaning of the scriptures, supported by public worship, made manifest in a life of service, and carried out in the midst of a community" (One at the Table, 131).

You are especially encouraged to prepare for and make recourse to the Sacrament of Reconciliation as you prepare for reception into the full communion of the Catholic Church. Tertullian, St. Augustine, and other Church Fathers referred to the Sacrament of Reconciliation (also known as Penance or Confession) as a second baptism. Acknowledging one baptism for the forgiveness of sins, by which we are made one with Christ through his death and resurection, the Sacrament of Baptism is never repeated. But in the Sacrament of Reconciliation we are reconciled to God and to the community of believers that is the Church. Through the Sacrament of Reconciliation we are forgiven of our sins and may approach the Eucharistic table once again. It is therefore fitting for candidates to discuss with their sponsors how they will prepare for the Sacrament of Reconciliation as their initiation approaches.

I would encourage you to consider some of the excellent books housed in our parish library, from which you can learn about the faith and so live out the transformation of your heart, mind, and soul that began at your baptism. And, as always, please feel welcome to contact Andrew Casad, the Director of the Catechumenate, at any time with questions, concerns, or just to have a conversation about our faith. We welcome you on this journey!