Each person’s journey of faith is different, therefore the path and ​“time-line” for preparing for sacraments varies with the needs of each person.​

The first step in becoming a Catholic is to meet with the parish Initiation Coordinator.  At this meeting, the individual or family inquiring into the Catholic Church will be warmly received, questions will be answered, and particular needs will be assessed.  Each person’s journey of faith is different, therefore the path and “time-line” for preparing for initiation varies with the  needs of each person.​
Picture Catherine Shadduck
For more information or to set up an appointment, please contact:
Catherine Shadduck
​Initiation Coordinator
(805) 482 · 6417 x331
catherine@padreserra.org
What is RCIA?
The sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist (Communion) are called sacraments of initiation because we become members of the Catholic Church through them.  The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the gradual process by which adults (18+) prepare for and celebrate the sacraments of initiation. ​Those baptized in a Christian tradition other than Catholic are also received into full communion with the Catholic Church through the Rite
Baptism for School Aged Children
Grades 1 through 12
  • Grades 1, 2: 
    Mondays or Wednesdays, 3:30 pm or 5:15 pm 
  • ​Grades 3, 4, 5:
    Mondays     5:15 pm
  • Middle School:
    Wednesdays, 6:30 pm
  • High School:
    Sundays, 11:00 - 2:00 pm
School-age children, capable of having a faith of their own, are initiated through the RCIA process, adapted for children.
We have a loving and welcoming process at Padre Serra through which children 6 years of age and older are prepared to be received into the Church.
​Children learn about the Bible, Jesus, the Church, prayer, and how God is acting in their lives. They participate in some of the Faith Formation activities with the baptized children in the parish and gradually learn what it means to be a Catholic Christian.
Catholic Inquiry
18+
Tuesdays, 7:00 - 8:30 pm
​All year-around
Are you longing for a closer relationship with Jesus and a church to call your own? Do you know someone who is wondering if the Catholic Church is the place for them? It could be your neighbor, your coworker, or someone in your family.

We have a group that meets year-round to explore what it means to be a disciple of Jesus in the Catholic tradition. The atmosphere is informal, open, and free of any pressure. Those attending are invited to ask any questions they may have followed by a discussion on various topics regarding our faith.

If you know someone who might be interested, invite them to accompany you to one of the meetings. We serve great refreshments, too!
Confirmation for Adults
18+
Thursdays, ​7:00 - 8:30 pm
Begins January through May
​We have a comprehensive 4-month process to prepare adults to be confirmed. The bishop celebrates confirmation at the parish sometime in May (date to be determined in the fall).

​Also visit: Confirmation Preparation for Adults