Order of Christian Initiation (Adults)
Are you interested in becoming Catholic?
OCIA, the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults, is the journey of exploring our faith through various classes. You will be introduced to the beliefs and practices of the Roman Catholic Church. We will help you explore what it means to be a Christian and prepare you to enter fully into our faith community through the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist. We welcome all who are new to the faith, the baptized or unbaptized, Catholics who have not completed the sacraments, and anyone who is simply searching for God. OCIA begins in the fall and concludes in the spring.
The Stages of Becoming Catholic
Inquiry
This is an open-ended period of time that begins your OCIA journey. This usually entails attending a few Masses on your own, scheduling a call or meeting with our pastor and/or OCIA lead to talk about becoming Catholic. It culminates with the first few meeting sessions during the Fall to ask initial questions of faith.
Catechumenate
The period of time after initial inquiry. You are enrolled in the faith formation program and regularly meeting in small groups to further grow your knowledge of the Catholic Faith and build a relationship with Christ. This is when you'll make your initial proclamation of faith.
Purification and Enlightenment
This is a time of spiritual preparation and introspection that coincides with the season of Lent in the Church. You are further participating and experiencing the Catholic faith through the seasons of the Church and by opening up the Word. This culminates with Easter Vigil, when you are received into the Body of Christ through the reception of the Sacraments of Initiation.
Mystagogy
We celebrate you! We welcome you into the Body of Christ and continue to equip you to live out your Catholic faith! This is a great time to explore the various ministries our parish has to offer. It an easy way to maintain involvement and create community with other parishioners.
