What is OCIA?

The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is the process established for the universal Church for individuals to become Catholic and receive the sacraments of initiation — Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist. This initiation process also involves a parish community experiencing a renewal in faith as it prepares and welcomes new members into the Church.

The Order speaks of conversion as a “spiritual journey.” Centered on fostering a deep relationship with Jesus and the Church he founded, this journey takes place through distinct stages over a period of time suitable to bring about a thorough catechesis, significant experience of the parish community, and commitment to the liturgical and moral life of the Catholic faithful.

OCIA aims to transform the entire person into an individual who has truly accepted Jesus into their life and made a decision to follow Him.

Who is OCIA for?

1. Those who are in need of Baptism.
2. Those who are baptized in another Christian tradition who desire to become Catholic.
3. Those who were baptized Catholic and are in need of First Communion and/or Confirmation.

What is the process and when are the classes?

The process begins with Inquiry sessions called, "The Faith Explored."

When: 2nd Tuesdays of each month, 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM
Where: Catechetical Ministry Office
What: A brief presentation on an element of the Catholic Faith followed by small group discussion.

Once a person has attended at least one Inquiry session, they can then meet with the pastor to discuss the formal preparations for becoming Catholic, called the Catechumenate. Once you join the Catechumenate, you will begin meeting weekly with other catechumens to prepare for reception into the Catholic Church at Easter.

Who teaches the classes?

The material is presented by the OCIA team members and the Pastor.

How do I begin?

When you're ready to move from Inquiry to the Catechumenate, please schedule an appointment to meet with the pastor for an initial intake meeting.

What does the initiation process involve?

The full process of becoming a Catholic involves more than liturgical ceremonies, although these ceremonies are very beauitful and powerful. A number of elements form the whole process. Key among these elements is evangelization, engagement with the community, catechesis, formation for mission and the sacraments of initiation.

How long is the OCIA process?

Because the process of becoming a Christian is about conversion and the transformation of the whole person, it is difficult to determine how long this process will take. Every person is treated as an individual with a unique history and background. Everyone grows and develops at his or her own pace. Through a process of spiritual discernment, catechumens are led one step at a time to the sacraments of initiation. These steps or periods correspond to the spiritual growth of the individual. The time varies, but is rarely shorter than six months or longer than three years. The Church greatly respects the time each person needs for conversion and decision. The OCIA text gives guides for discerning this on a case-by-case basis.

Sacraments of Christian Initiation?

On the night when Christians around the world celebrate the Resurrection of the Lord, the Easter Vigil, the elect are led to the saving waters of Baptism, sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit in the sacrament of Confirmation, and receive the Body and Blood of Christ in the Eucharist for the first time.

Other Common Questions

I’ve been baptized. Will I be "re-baptized"?

Typically, if you were baptized in another Christian denomination, you will not be "re-baptized," but you will enter the Catholic Church by making a “Profession of Faith”.

Some baptismal formulas are not recognized as valid by the Catholic Church (for example, the Mormon formula of baptism), and thus you will need to receive Baptism as a Roman Catholic Christian.

I’m divorced. How does this affect me joing the Church?

Everyone’s situation is different. You will need to meet with the pastor to see which solution offered by the Catholic Church best meets your needs. Our Pastor will be able to assess your situation and can help you get started.

What if I go through OCIA and choose not to become Catholic?

That is your decision and you will not be pressured to become Catholic. Some people learn about Catholicism for a few years before deciding to become Catholic, and some never choose to move forward.

Will becoming Catholic really affect my everyday life?

Completely! And, for the better. Many converts to Catholicism are the best witnesses to the truth, beauty, and goodness of God. We see in them the power of God's grace at work in a unique way that inspires all of us to give our lives more fully to Jesus Christ.