R.C.I.A. / Becoming Catholic Through Baptism
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the process of preparing adults to be baptized and be fully initiated (thus also receiving the Sacraments of Confirmation and First Eucharist at the Easter Vigil) into the Communion of the Catholic Church. As stated in the Catechism of the Catholic Church, no. 775 "'The Church, in Christ, is like a sacrament-a sign and instrument, that is, of communion with God and of unity among all men.' The Church’s first purpose is to be a sacrament of the inner union of men with God. Because man’s communion with one another is rooted in that union with God, the Church is also the sacrament of the unity of the human race. In her, this unity is already begun, since she gathers men 'from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and tongues', at the same time, the Church is the 'sign and instrument' of the full realization of the unity yet to come." And no. 776 states: "The Church 'is the visible plan of God's love for humanity.'"
Children over the age of reason (7 years old) can also participate in this process and so prepare for the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and First Eucharist since they are capable of learning Jesus Christ and making a conscious decision for him.
