Adult Baptism: The Catholic RCIA Process Explained

If you are an adult considering becoming a Catholic, the Sacrament of Baptism is your first step. Since you are making this commitment as an adult, the Church has a special process to prepare you.

Understanding the Path: The RCIA

The standard path for an adult who has not been baptised but wishes to join the Catholic Church is through the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA).

What is the first step?

Your first step is to contact your local Catholic parish and ask to speak with the priest or the RCIA coordinator. Most parishes are delighted to welcome new people and will guide you through the initial phases. You can find more comprehensive information about the process on The official Australian RCIA website.

Joining the community

When you seek Baptism, you are asking to become a full, committed member of the Catholic Church. This involves:

Instruction: You will be asked to participate in instruction classes, which are handled through the RCIA program.
Commitment: You commit your life to God, proclaiming your faith in the Holy Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit).
Participation: You are expected to take part in the life of that community on a regular basis.

Adult Baptism vs. Infant Baptism

The core promises are the same, but the ceremony for adults is slightly different.

Feature	Adult Baptism	Infant Baptism
Promises	You make the baptismal promises yourself.	Parents and godparents make the promises on the child's behalf.
Sponsor Role	You have a sponsor to encourage you in the Catholic faith.	The godparent is both a spiritual and often a legal/social guide.
Traditional Date	Most suitable time is the Easter Vigil.	Usually celebrated on a Sunday, often immediately following Mass.

A note on prior Baptism and certificates

These are common questions for adults seeking to join the Church.

Can I be baptised again?

No, a person may only be baptised once. The Catholic Church teaches that Baptism confers a permanent spiritual mark (an indelible mark) on the soul. This great gift is permanent and cannot be repeated.

The Church recognises Baptism conducted in the Orthodox churches, as well as in many other Christian churches, provided the Trinitarian formula was used ("I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit") while pouring or immersing the person in water.

Why does the Church need a recent certificate?

Baptism is the prerequisite for all other sacraments (Eucharist, Confirmation, Marriage, etc.).

Verification: A priest must verify that you have been baptised before you can receive any subsequent sacrament.
Marriage Proof: For the Sacrament of Marriage, a recent certificate is required. This is because notes regarding your marital status are recorded in your original baptismal register. A recent copy proves you are free to receive the Sacrament of Marriage.

The Church keeps records of Baptisms and observes privacy legislation in Australia regarding access to these records.

Honouring your sponsor and commitment

Your sponsor plays a vital role by supporting you through the RCIA process and encouraging your lifelong faith.

A personalised candle is a beautiful, traditional gift to honour your sponsor's commitment. Taper candles are often used to symbolise the passing of the light of faith.

Shop Personalised Taper Candle Sets for your Sponsor