The Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults is the process by which adults become full members of the Catholic community. It restores the ancient catechumenate - the process by which persons became Christians in the early church by praying and studying with the community for 1-3 years. After their Lenten retreat, they were initiated into the community at the Easter Vigil. Like the ancient catechumenate, the RCIA takes place within the community, emphasizing the community as the initiating body. The contemporary catechumenate is an extended process of conversion, faith formation and transformation. Rather than a "program of instruction", it is a multi-dimensional process which includes immersion in the Word of God, worship, community, and service.
For more information on becoming Catholic or being received into full communion with the Catholic faith, see Fr. Joe after Mass.