• An unbaptized person. This is the key distinction. A catechumen has never been baptized in any Christian tradition.​
• Formally accepted into the Church's formation program. This person has moved beyond the inquiry stage and has publicly declared their intention to become a baptized member of the Catholic Church. This transition is marked by the Rite of Acceptance into the Order of Catechumens.
• Preparing for all three Sacraments of Christian Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist. The catechumenate is a period of extended formation and catechesis, where they learn about Catholic doctrine, prayer, and life.