Each year thousands of adults choose to become Catholics. They come from different backgrounds for different reasons: Some are already Christians from other traditions attracted by the teaching of the Catholic Church and by the example of individual Catholics they know. Some are from another Faith or no Faith at all who have heard about Jesus, His claim to forgive sin and His promise of eternal life. Some are non-Catholics who have been coming regularly to Mass for years with their Catholic relatives. They wish now to become full members of the Church. Some have had no previous contact with the Church at all but have this inner calling to discover the truth about the most important questions of life. If any of the above situations applies to you, then please contact us.
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults
Most Catholics enter the Church through baptism as infants and receive the Eucharist and Reconciliation (First Communion and Confession) and Confirmation when young. However, there are many people who become Catholics, or receive the Sacraments they have previously missed, later in life. There are also some Catholics who missed out on the Sacraments as children and also those Catholics who are feeling a bit ‘rusty’ in their knowledge of their Faith and who would like to learn more.
Can anyone become a Catholic?
Yes. All that is required is belief in God and the teachings of the Catholic Church founded by Jesus Christ. This should be borne out in our daily lives, eg by prayer, coming to Holy Mass every Sunday, living moral lives of truth and charity. If this isn’t entirely the case currently, then talking to the parish office or the deacon will be an opportunity to investigate further. All we ask is a willingness to explore in good faith and openness the call of Jesus to become more faithfully His disciple. There are lots of misunderstandings about what the Catholic Church actually believes and why. This is your chance to find out for yourself.
I was brought up as a Christian in another denomination. Do I have to reject my past life?
No – if it isn’t contrary to our Faith and morals. God has brought you to this point where you are considering becoming a Catholic. We rejoice in the Christian goodness and truth you have experienced elsewhere.
People thinking about becoming Catholic can feel nervous. This is one of the most important decisions you can make, but you are not alone. Thousands of people across the country are doing the same thing. There are others in a similar situation with the same basic questions.
What do I do next?
Contact parish office and we will help you take that first step.
Tel: 01308 422 594 or email: bridport@prcdtr.org.uk
“May they all be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you… so that the world may believe,”
(John 17:21)