Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults Adapted for Children

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 Cannon 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.