The Catechumenate, or formation of catechumens, aims at bringing their conversion and faith to maturity, in response to the divine initiative and in union with an ecclesial community. The catechumenate is to be a "formation in the whole Christian life... during which the disciples will be joined to Christ their teacher. The catechumens should be properly initiated into the mystery of salvation and the practice of the evangelical virtues, and they should be introduced into the life of faith, liturgy, and charity of the People of God by successive sacred rites" [Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist]. (Catechism of the Catholic Church #1248)

Have you never been baptized and are in a need for guidance to learn, to grow, and to develop your relationship with God?

Were you baptized into another Christian Church and wish to enter into full communion with the Catholic Church?

Are you baptized in the Catholic Church, but never had any religious instruction in the Catholic faith?

If your answer to any of the questions above is yes, then you have come to the right place! We, the Boston Deaf Apostolate, welcome you! We are more than delighted to guide you through a process of education, faith sharing and rituals called the "Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults" (RCIA). According to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), the RCIA is a process in which participants "undergo... conversion as they study the Gospel, profess faith in Jesus and the Catholic Church, and receive the sacraments... The RCIA process follows the ancient practice of the Church and was restored by the Second Vatican Council as the normal way adults prepare for baptism."

RCIA is truly an amazing and exciting journey as one learns so much more about how God is involved in his/her life, especially through both good and bad times. It also leads one to a deepening of personal faith and relationship to God, others, and self. Now you are here no matter how or what brought you here, it shows that you are opening up to God and His call in your life! You may be wondering where to begin the journey?! Your next step is to contact us at the Office of the Deaf Apostolate via email: office@bostondeafcatholic.org or call us at
617-398-0949 (VP) or 617-746-5815 (voice).

We look forward to hearing from you!