How does becoming Catholic work if you're older?

Question

As of right now I hold no specific religion, which I'm sure I'm called an Atheist. I do believe in God and I am very strongly considering gaining a religion, not because of these naysayers who put down people like me most times, but because I feel in my heart it's time I picked one and I've chosen to become Catholic but I'm not sure how it all happens, tho I do know I'd have to get baptized. I tried to ask around but all people can tell me is how it works for a baby, not someone whose grown so can anyone help me with any information on steps to becoming catholic at an older age?

Answer 1

If you are interested in joining or just learning more about the Catholic Church, contact your local parish and ask about information about their RCIA Inquiry group.

You can go and ask any questions you want.

This is the first step in RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) but you can stop at any time.

There is no obligation to become a Catholic.

With love and prayers in Christ.

Answer 2

In addition to the other great advice that others have given you on this board ... I'd also recommend visiting the Catholic Answers web site to find out what sets Catholicism apart from Protestantism and other forms of Christianity.

Just Google "Catholic Answers" to find that site.

I'd also recommend a few books, that you can probably find on Amazon.com:

"Why Do Catholics Do That?" by Kenneth Orlin Johnson

"What Catholics Really Believe: Setting the Record Straight" by Karl Keating

"Catholicism and Fundamentalism" also by Keating

There's also probably a "Catholicism for Dummies" out there.

But I strongly advise AGAINST a book called "An Idiot's Guide to Catholicism." Many things in that book are absolutely FALSE about Catholicism.

Whatever book you read about Catholicism, make sure that it has a "imprimatur" and a "nihil obstat" from a bishop -- you can usually find it on one of the front pages, before the book actually begins. These two things simply mean that a bishop has examined the book and has determined that it's free of error with regard to Catholic teaching.

Not surprisingly, "The Idiot's Guide to Catholicism" does not contain an imprimatur or nihil obstat from any bishop.

Answer 3

It's not difficult. It may or may not take some time, but it's not difficult. What you need to do is contact a priest at nearest Catholic, or maybe even your Diocese.

Ask them about a good RCIA Program. RCIA stands for the Right of Christian Initiation for Adults. This is for people like you, who have chosen to become Catholic in adulthood. It will consist of Catholic Education. How long this will take depends on what you already know about the Catholic Church.

Another part of it is receiving the Sacraments of Initiation. The first is Baptism. The second is the Holy Eucharist. Once you receive this Sacrament, you will be allowed to receive Communion at Catholic masses. Finally, you will receive the Sacrament of Confirmation.

You might be interested in this web site:
www.amm.org/chss.htm

It offers seven home study courses, YOu can take which ever ones you want, go at your own pace - and it's FREE! I recommend "We Believe...A Survey of the Catholic Faith". I took it myself, and am currently working my way through the rest of them.

That's about it. Good luck and God Bless!

Answer 4

I have no idea where you are, but choosing the religion should be based on you believe system and something closest to your heart. That aside, and if you 100% comfortable with being a Catholic, the most important thing is to visit your closest Catholic Church and talk with the Priest as he will tell you what you need to do, and mostly important for Catholics is to loose the Adam and Eve first sin, the procedure is called "christening".. then onwards most NB is the first Communion, however whatever it is, needs always the guidance of the Catholic Priest who is qualified to help you. And dont worry about being a baby or adult. In eyes of God we all children till we die.

Good Luck with your choice.

Answer 5

Welcome, sister in Christ! If you're in the area, our RCIA group will begin this fall. www.washucsc.org

RCIA is part discernment process, part preparation. The discernment is for you to seek, learn and be able to conclude with your whole heart whether you'd like to become Catholic. The preparation part comes if you decide you'd like to seek Christ in the Catholic tradition. This culminates with your initiation as an adult, through Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation.

The one who said that Catholicism needs to get rid of "the Adam and Eve first sin thing" and "that Christening thing" should learn more about our reasons behind these beliefs. You will have the opportunity to ask every question in order that you make the decision freely and fully.

Contact me through my avatar if you want to talk more. I'll find a minister for you to talk with and help answer questions.

Answer 6

First things first...

Contact the local parish and speak to the Priest or RCIA director.

RCIA means Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults.

If you have more questions you can contact me directly...

You will probably be challenged by a lot of people here.

Peace.

Answer 7

To get the most accurate information, you should find a local church and make an appt. with a priest to give you the run down. I know there's a conversion process and catechism classes.

Answer 8

I don't know how you become Catholic, but I think you would be called Agnostic since you believe there is a God. Atheists don't believe there is one.

Answer 9

its actually not that complicated but you surely need dedication. First of all you have to find a parish where you would want to attend, aproach the parish priest and tell him about your desire. depending on where you live, you will most probably have to attend catechism classes for at least a year and then you will be baptised.....

Answer 10

I am Catholic and I am not fanatic.
younger or older no problem,
as long as you believe