What is OCIA?
The Order of Christian Initiation for Adults, or OCIA, is a communal process for formal initiation of new members into the Catholic Church. This process is a return to the formation of the earliest members of the Church in the first and second centuries.
Welcome!
We're so glad you stopped by, and we thank the Holy Spirit for guiding you to this page.
OCIA is an invitation to come and see.
To look at what it means to be a Catholic Christian. To look at what it means to follow Jesus. To look at what changes of heart and mind must take place in your life if you wish to truly follow Jesus.
OCIA is a spiritual journey. Those seeking to become Catholic are asked to walk the journey of faith with members of the parish community. Discussions bring people together to share their experiences of God's love and presence in their lives and to grow in their understanding of God speaking to them through Scripture.
OCIA follows the pattern of the early Church in establishing a longer process of conversion and initiation, to ensure all members are well-informed on the doctrines and practices of Christianity. Participants are given ample time to spiritually prepare themselves before making such an important decision.
OCIA is not a class or a course of study. It is not a series of lectures on Catholic dogma and doctrine. It is, however, a conversion experience. It is hearing the good news that God loves us and is present to us today. It is the beginning of faith.
The OCIA journey means growth and deepening our relationship with God in faith. It is always about conversion, about transformation, about falling in love with Jesus and sharing that love with our neighbors and the world. It is never about mere information, but you will learn so much! We invite you to join us in learning more about Catholicism and becoming Catholic.
Two groups meet together in the OCIA journey: Catechumens and Candidates.
Catechumens are non-baptized adults who desire to be fully initiated into the Roman Catholic Church through the Sacraments of Initiation – Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation. During this process, which is marked by regular ritual acts, participants are introduced to the liturgy, the teachings, and the life of the Catholic Church.
Candidates are baptized adult Catholics or Christians who desire full communion in the Roman Catholic Church seeking complete initiation through the sacraments of the Eucharist and Confirmation. Candidates are prepared in a similar way for the sacraments of Confirmation and the Eucharist during their reception into the Catholic Church.
The OCIA meets on Wednesdays from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm. Please join us!
