RCIA - What is it

RCIA, which stands for Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, is a process
through which non-baptized men and women enter the Catholic Church. (It is
also for those baptized in a different faith tradition who wish to become
Catholic, or baptized Catholic, but never confirmed) It includes several stages
marked by study, prayer and rites at Mass. Participants in the RCIA are known
as catechumens. They undergo a process of conversion as they study the
Gospel, profess faith in Jesus and the Catholic Church, and receive the
sacraments of baptism, confirmation and Holy Eucharist. 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. In 1974 the Rite
for Christian Initiation for Adults was formally approved for use in the United
States.

For a more thorough explanation, please go to the Website listed below:

http://www.deacon.org/RCIAFaqs.htm