Becoming a Catholic : What other people say
Here are some comments made by different people who have become Catholics after taking part in an RCIA course in the diocese:
What difference do you think the journey in faith course and becoming a Catholic has made to you?
Becoming a Catholic is like a watershed for me. I find Catholicism suits me as it is life-affirming and joyous."
My life has become more disciplined. I have become more aware of God around me, and I like to spend more time with God, to bring me closer to him."
I have a feeling of wholeness, calm and peace. It's like the missing piece in a jigsaw and it has filled every area of my life."
What have you found the most helpful on the RCIA course?
The informal style, being together with others who have the same aim, yet have different backgrounds, was really helpful, as was having people from the previous years' course."
It was helpful that there were no assumptions about what people might already believe."
It is difficult to single out one particular element as the course as a whole is very effective. The weekly schedule with each session building on the previous one, coupled with actually attending Mass and the special services allowed me to build up an understanding of what it means to be a Catholic."
What did you find most difficult?
The difficulty for me was the time commitment but I also believe the course is exactly the right length so that element can't really be changed, and if something is worthwhile that literally means it is worth the time it takes."
The sacrament of reconciliation was the hardest part to actually do but was very worthwhile when I actually had the courage to do this. The discussions in the sessions helped to alleviate some of the concerns but it wasn't until I actually did it that these concerns went away."
What did you find most memorable about the Easter vigil?
The confirmation was the the most meaningful section of the evening, whilst the darkness to light at the beginning was the most exciting aspect. I particularly liked the Litany of Saints - it was very powerful. It wasn't until the Mass the next day that I came to the realisation that I was a Catholic."
I think I will always remember the moment at the Easter Vigil when Bishop Lindsay told us that after our baptism it was only the beginning, and not the end, of our journey in faith."