People have different reasons for thinking
about becoming a Catholic

In our parish we invite you to a series of meetings where you can learn more about the Church and find out what it means to be a Catholic. Whether you are baptised or not, whether you are a practising Christian or know very little about Christianity, you are welcome to ask questions and to share your interest with others in the same situation.

These meetings are informal and enjoyable. They begin in September and take place each Wednesday evening in the Sacred Heart Hall. The following months are a period of enquiry - there is no commitment or expectation that you will carry on to the next stage.

Those who do wish to continue to seek to become members of the Church are welcomed by the parish community at the Rite of Acceptance. This takes place at one of the Sunday Masses at the beginning of Advent, in November.

The Wednesday evening meetings continue and so too does your growing familiarity with Catholic prayers and belief and your understanding of the Gospel and the teachings of the Church. You will be supported at these meetings by your sponsor - someone who accompanies you as guide, companion and friend.

Other members of the parish act as catechists - people who share with you their faith and understanding. Our parish priest, Fr Chris also takes an occasional part in these meetings.

At the beginning of Lent - usually in March - you will be invited to the Rite of Election. Together with people from across the Diocese who feel ready to make the serious commitment to become members of the Church, you will be welcomed by Bishop Crispian and called by name as one of the elect. Your name will be written in the Book of the Elect which stands open by the sanctuary in the Sacred Heart Church.

The following weeks of Lent are a period of intense preparation. Those who are ready will become members of the Catholic Church at the Easter Vigil, the central celebration of the Church, by initiation through the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and the Eucharist. If you have been baptised or confirmed then these Sacraments would not be repeated. The whole parish community then joins in celebration and welcome to its new members with a party afterwards.

After the joy and excitement of Easter the Wednesday evening meetings continue until the Feast of Pentecost, another fifty days. This is a time for reflecting on your journey in faith so far as a part of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, and on the journey that will continue for the rest of your life.