St. Mary Parish

• Anyone age seven and older who is not yet baptized
• Anyone age seven and older who is baptized Christian and now wishes to become Catholic

A catechumen is an individual who is age 7 or older, never been baptized, and has celebrated the Rite of Acceptance after a time of inquiry into the Catholic faith. The catechumen’s journey into the Church is meant to be an “apprentice model” where the individual gradually grows to a mature faith through a conversion process. This journey is steeped in the yearly liturgical life of the Church. Various rituals are celebrated through the journey to mark one’s progress. Catechumens become fully initiated Catholics at the Easter Vigil when they celebrate Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist.

A candidate for full communion in the Catholic Church is an individual who is age 7 or older, already Baptized in another Christian community, and has arrived at the hopes of becoming Catholic through a time of inquiry. The candidate’s journey into the Church is based upon the individual’s Christian background and needs. The candidate also gradually grows to mature faith through a conversion process and the celebration of optional rituals along the journey. Candidates make a profession of faith at Mass, are formally welcomed into the Church by the presiding priest, and celebrate Confirmation and Eucharist. This celebration can happen anytime throughout the year, but is most special during the Easter season.