Is RCIA neccessary to convert?

[flatliner]

I have a babtized friend who wants to convert to the Catholic Church. He knows all about the faith, even more than I do, it seems, and he professes it. He even argues for it against our Protestant friends. But Father still wants him to go to RCIA classes before allowing him to be Confirmed. Is this proper? He said he met with Father and demonstrated his profession and understanding of the faith. What should he do?

 

[Fr.Vincent_Serpa]

Dear flat,

If your friend truly wants to be a Catholic, then he ought to get used to obeying lawful Church authority, for starters. A year is not a long time. Being a practicing Catholic consists of more that simply knowing theory. Father wants to make sure that your friend is fully prepared. Now, I just hope that Father has a decent RCIA program!

Fr. Vincent Serpa, O.P.