These are the different periods in the R.C.I.A. journey:

Inquiry
In this first period, people seek answers to their questions about the Catholic faith --- and they receive the true answers. Perhaps they have heard information about the faith that needs to be clarified or expanded. Or maybe they never knew what certain teachings were. These informal discussions help inquirers to acquaint themselves with the Catholic Church and hear the Good News of the Lord Jesus Christ. Inquiry lasts as long as an inquirer needs it to last. This may mean a few months or a year --- or even longer. The foremost question is: Do I want to be a follower of Jesus Christ in the Catholic Tradition? During this period, inquirers may decide to consider becoming members of the Catholic Church. If so, they enter into another period of the R.C.I.A. journey: the Catechumenate. This transition is marked by the Rite of Acceptance.

Catechumenate
This period is the first step in the commitment leading to full membership in the Catholic Church. "Catechumenate" means "time of serious study." The candidates and catechumens already have come to faith in Christ Jesus and long to become members of the Church. They join the Catholic community at Mass on Sunday, celebrating the Liturgy of the Word together. However, because they are not yet in communion with the believers, they are "dismissed" or sent out with an R.C.I.A. team member to reflect upon the Sunday readings and feed upon the Word of the Lord. This time nurtures union with Christ through sharing faith and witnessing in a small and intimate community of faith. Catechumens and candidates also are given godparents and sponsors as companions in the faith journey. Stories from the Sunday lectionary, Scripture and personal experiences encourage a readiness of spirit for membership in the Church. In this period, the initial conversion is deepened and strengthened. The love and knowledge for the Lord and His Church grows. This stage lasts as long as one needs it to, from a year to several years. For the unbaptized, this period must last at least 12 months. If ready, the candidates and catechumens go through the Rite of Election. After that rite, they are called "the elect."

Purification and Enlightenment
During Lent, this last stage of preparation is an intense time, filled with prayers, fasting and reflection. The elect now experience scrutinies and exorcisms, special rites sealing their break from darkness and preparing them for a life in the Son. Throughout this period, the elect are called to join with the whole Church in deeper practices of works of charity and fasting. Also, the readings at the Mass follow the theme of continuing conversion. Near the end of this period, the elect are given the Creed, the summary of our faith, and the Lord's Prayer by the Church. Celebration of the Sacraments of Initiation Easter Vigil: The sacraments of initiation are celebrated at the Easter Vigil. It is the most significant moment of the liturgical year. On this night, the elect enter fully into the Church. The Catholic family grows, and the Church joyfully now welcomes its new brothers and sisters.

Mystagogy
From Easter through Pentecost, the neophytes -- the "new shoots" --- reflect upon the sacraments received and their call to the mission of Christ. This period allows them to look for new ways to live a life of grace, both personally and in community.