OUR LIVING HOPE, THROUGH THE AGES
Becoming Catholic
Our Mission
The Diocese of Buffalo proclaims the Gospel of Jesus Christ, celebrates His Sacraments, and exercises His works of mercy, so that all might participate in His salvation and discover the lasting joy of a relationship with Him.
For more than 2,000 years the Catholic Church has spread throughout the world to preserve the truth He gave us and to help all encounter the love and grace of God in every corner of the earth regardless of age.
What do Catholics believe?
- We believe that everything God created is good and created out of love. Catholics see the world and its beauty, renewed by the Incarnation, as sacramental – where God’s grace and goodness are infused in all His wondrous creation. Human beings are no exception. God created us, in His image, in love, and while we have the capacity for sin, Catholics believe in the dignity of the human person above all else.
- We believe that God loved us so much that He became human, in the person of Jesus, to walk among us, to teach us and to show us His love.
- We believe that Mary is the Mother of God, was conceived without sin, remained a virgin both before and after the birth of Christ, and was assumed, body and soul, into Heaven upon her death.
- We believe in the Holy Trinity, that God has revealed Himself to us as three persons in one God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit – a communion of knowledge and love.
- We believe in community and a living Church. Believers are a part of the living Body of Christ, and, as such, we are a reflection of the communal nature of the Trinity.
- We believe in stewardship. All of our gifts and talents have been given to us by God. As Catholics, it is our responsibility is to share our gifts and talents with those around us.
- We believe in the communion of the saints – models of faith who help us and guide us in our daily lives.
- We believe in Jesus’ crucifixion, death, and resurrection, which we celebrate every Sunday and we hope that one day we will rise to new life with Him.
Thinking About Becoming Catholic?
Here are some ways to experience the Catholic faith:
- Speak with a friend or family member who is Catholic.
- Gather with others who are discerning.
- Participate in service opportunities through Catholic Charities.
- Stay tuned for Alpha gatherings in Western New York.
- Stay involved by reading about the faith.
- Learn more about Catholic Social Teaching
- Participate in Mass: find a parish near you.
- When appropriate, begin the Rite of Election.
Want To Go Deeper?
Check out the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) offered at your local parish. To speak with someone about the process of RCIA, please fill out the form at the bottom of the page. This process is ideal for those wishing to become Catholic who are:
- Unbaptized and over the age of 7
- Baptized in a different Christian denomination
- Baptized Catholic but have not received Confirmation or Communion
What If I’m Not Quite Sure This Is For Me?
That’s ok! Throughout the process of initiation into the Catholic Church, we accompany you to support, guide and help you discern God’s call in your life; you can decide at any time that this is not the path you are called to.
If you are interested in becoming Catholic or are returning to the faith and would like to speak with someone please contact the Office of Worship, using the form below.
Find a Parish to Discern Your Next Steps
If you are interested in becoming Catholic or learning more about the RCIA process, returning to the faith or if you have general questions please contact the Office of Worship, which coordinates the RCIA:
