Frequently Asked Questions

� Can people of other faiths attend services at CK?
They can, they do, and they are welcome. Most often, people from other churches come here for weddings, baptisms and funerals. Some people of other faiths attend regularly with their Catholic spouses. We do ask that only practicing Catholics receive Holy Communion, since this is a very sacred sacrament of initiation and ongoing unity with Christ and within the Church (and not simply a symbolic meal, as is the case among some religious denominations).

� Are the Sunday Masses different in style?
As is the case in most Catholic parishes, Masses tend to acquire a certain tone or style over time, although the essence does not change, and even the stylistic differences are not all that notable. Our Saturday Vigil Mass tends to be a little more quiet and contemplative, similar to the Sunday 7:30 a.m. Mass. The 9:30 and 11:30 a.m. Masses are more contemporary and seem to attract young families. The Sunday evening Mass is LIFE TEEN. We also offer Mass outdoors on Sunday at 8:00 a.m., in cars when the weather is cold (tune your radio to FM 97.1) or in folding chairs (bring your own) when the weather is warm.

� How do I become a Catholic?
The best way for most people is a way that dates back to the earliest centuries of Christianity. It's called RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) and is a yearlong introduction to the Catholic faith through a series of classes. RCIA culminates in the ancient rites of initiation on the Easter Vigil. There is a similar, though simplified program for older children. For further information, contact one of the priests or Dr. Ross Ronish, director of RCIA. Click on the "How to be a Catholic" icon on your left to learn more about RCIA.

� How do I have my child baptized?
The baptism of children is a custom that dates back to the beginning of the Church, and is based on the faith of the parents who are to become the first Christian teachers of their children. Parents can schedule a date for the baptism through the office, but first we require parents to attend baptismal instruction, currently a set of online presentations.    Click here to go to the baptism page.

� Does the parish provide daycare during Mass?
Children are always welcome here. After all, we believe it is the House of their Father. But if children are being fussy, we have a  �cry room� where parents can take their children, still hear and see the Mass.  Our Sunday morning childcare is closed due to COVID, but our Early Childhood Religious Education , for children ages 3 through 1st Grade, is available during the Sunday 9:30 a.m. Mass.

� I'm Catholic by birth, was baptized, but I have not practiced the faith and know little about the Church.
There is a group especially designed for persons in your situation, the Coming Home group. The idea is to meet you where you are and to help you �catch up� in an open, respectful way. Click on the "Once Catholic" icon on your left to learn more about Catholics Come Home program. RCIA is also a good option.  And there�s a whole host of adult education and Bible study opportunities.

� I'm divorced. Can I be part of the parish?
Absolutely. Talk with a priest. Because of all that a divorce involves, the sacrament of Reconciliation may be necessary. If you were married, have divorced and then remarried, you can still participate in parish life, although you may be asked not to receive communion until you have worked out your marital situation with the Church. The marriage Tribunal handles hundreds of such cases each year, and, after investigating, often can issue a decree of nullity or of �freedom to marry�, allowing the second marriage to be convalidated or �blessed.�

� My home is in another parish. But I'm interested in CK.
Our parish area includes in all of Richland and West Richland, but people do attend from other areas and, conversely, some people from here are regulars at another parish. Although it is, in general, a good idea to attend and help build up the parish where you live,  people often have good reasons (family, language, friends, etc.) for attending and even registering elsewhere. The important thing is to foster spiritual growth and build up the Body of Christ.

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