The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults is the norm for initiation of all adults; it applies also to children of catechetical age (generally age seven) since under our Code of Canon Law they attain the status of adults at the age of reason in regard to sacraments of initiation. (RCIA 18) Thus, any unbaptized child over the age of reason, who desires to become Catholic participates in the Christian Initiation process which leads them to the celebration of the three Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist (Holy Communion). The RCIA process is adapted to meet the specific needs of children and youth.

Who should be in the RCIA program for Children & Youth?

The RCIA for Children & Youth is a process that invites any child or youth in 2nd to 12th grade interested in being baptized or receiving the remaining Sacraments of Initiation (Eucharist and Confirmation) who have been baptized in another Christian faith tradition.

If you are one of the following, than RCIA for Children & Youth is for you:

1. Children who have never been baptized.

2. Children baptized in another Christian faith.

Children begin RCIA for Children & Youth in the fall. Entry into the Church has historically been at Easter after about nine months or more of preparation but for some children, who are not yet ready, this process may take longer. The needs of each child throughout the RCIA for Children & Youth process are individually taken into account. Near the end of the process, the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist) are celebrated at the Easter Vigil.

Children who are 6 years of age or younger and have never been baptized, should apply to receive the Sacrament of Baptism.

2020-21 RCIA Adapted for Children & Youth Schedule

Please register for RCIA for Children & Youth in the form below, and a member of the St. Thomas Aquinas Formation team will contact you soon. 

RCIA for Children & Youth Meeting Times for 2020-2021 are TBD.

One parent is expected to attend the classes with their child(ren), and children must also register and attend their grade-level faith formation class. 

For more information and if you have any questions, please contact Darren Seibert, Director of Faith Formation, at formation@stabcs.org.