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EagerToLearn Ellaina
wrote:
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Hi, guys —
I am a 16-year-old girl who was never baptized but considers herself Catholic.
Personally, I really do not know much about the faith but I am eager to learn about it and be an active member. Growing up I have always considered myself Catholic despite not being baptized nor having received my First Communion or Confirmation.
- As a 16-year-old, would I be able to be baptized now and what process should I go through to be baptized?
- Can I do it at my age or must I go through some courses?
- Will I have to wait and go through RCIA?
- How long would the process take?
I really do not care about the amount of time it will take; I'm just curious.
I am really interested and am hopeful you will get back to me with some information.
Best Regards,
Ellaina
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How does a 16-year-old non-Christian become a Catholic; what's the process and when can I join? }
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Eric replied:
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Dear Ellaina,
That's great to hear that you want to become Catholic!
Unfortunately you will have to wait until you are eighteen and enter RCIA, unless you have permission from your parents. RCIA generally takes several months.
You will need a sponsor (although the Church can find one for you if needed). If you want to learn more about the faith, I recommend you get a copy of YouCat, the youth Catechism.
Eric
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Mike replied:
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Dear Ellaina,
I addition to Eric's fine answer, I just wanted to make sure you knew about the Favorites part of my website which addresses many of the questions you asked.
Here are some web page resources that Eric referenced. I agree with him, YouCat would be a good starting point for you.
Eric said:
RCIA generally takes several months.
To some, it can take longer than they would wish but part of the reason for this, includes fostering a Catholic community within the parish. When you finally make an appointment with the pastor for Baptismal prep make sure you ask him what ministries or apostolates the parish has that you can participate in; it's a great way to meet new friends!!
I hope this helps,
Mike
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