Are you new to the Catholic faith? Curious about how to become a Catholic? Are you returning back to the faith or have a strong wish to join the Catholic Church? Either way, we are very pleased to welcome you and guide you through this time of discovery.

In truth, your journey to Catholicism will be a slow but rewarding experience involving a commitment to God and your local Catholic community. This will take the form of receiving instructions in the faith and attending mass regularly.

For the seriously ill. The usual preparations of becoming a Catholic can be reduced to accommodate your needs. If you are unable to attend church regularly as a result of poor health, the local parish can arrange for Holy Communion to be brought to you at home. If you desire to become a full member of the Catholic Faith, please do not let health issues stand in the way, contact the parish and we will find a way to accommodate your circumstances.

You, or your current partner, have been married before. Please speak to your local Parish priest to learn more about the Church’s teachings on marriage, divorce and annulment.

You are unsure that the Catholic Church is for you or will accept you.  We welcome all who seek to know Christ and follow his teachings. Join us in celebration of the Good News. Please see our mass times for days and times which best suits you.

Additional reading for people considering on becoming a part of the Catholic Church

Going to mass

The main Sunday service in a Catholic Church is called Mass. At Mass we give thanks and receive the Body and Blood of Christ in the form of bread and wine. We remember the command of Jesus; “And he took bread, and when he had given thanks he broke it and gave it to them, saying, ‘This is my body which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me’” (Luke 22:19). As Catholics, we believe that the bread and wine truly become the Body and Blood of Jesus. This does not change in appearance or taste but we believe that through consecration they are fundamentally changed. Attending Mass every Sunday is obligatory for all Catholics. The Mass offers a unique opportunity to encounter God.

Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA)

For adults and older children (age seven onwards), entrance into the Church is governed by the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA). Most Parishes offer sessions for those considering to become Catholic and those who wish to deepen their faith. These sessions aim to bring participants together to learn about the Church’s teachings. In these sessions, you will further your understanding of the Scripture, learn about Catholic traditions and how we worship, learn how to pray and the different ways of praying.

If you have previously been part of a Christian Church, you will probably need less instruction as you will know the basic message of Jesus already.

Where to start?

Start your journey by attending Mass, or by visiting an RCIA session. Let your local Parish Priest know your intention to become Catholic or your intention to deepen your Catholic faith. Find out from your local Parish when the new cycle for new joiners are. At Our Lady of the Rosary sessions start from October and are weekly on Tuesdays at 7pm.

Contact us if you live in the local area and we will arrange an introduction.

Read More about the Catholic Faith