OCIA-Order of Christian Initiation of Adults / Children

The OCIA Journey of Faith is an ongoing process of prayer, study, discussion, and celebration for unbaptized adults or children who wish to learn more about the Catholic faith and possibly become full members of the Catholic family. If you have any questions about the program, please feel free to contact us. If you're ready to start the process of OCIA, please complete the Registration Form below.
OCIA - Adult Registration Form
OCIA - Adult Registration FormOCIC - Child Registration Form

OCIA Sponsor Form
Please have your sponsor complete the OCIA Sponsor Form below.
OCIA SPONSOR FORM

 

Introduction to OCIA

In short, Jesus invites you into his Church. The gradual process of OCIA involves exploring the faith in freedom. This program focuses on faith sharing while diving into the Creed, Sacraments, Christian Morality, Prayer, and History of the Church.

Whether you want to become Catholic or simply learn about the Church, we welcome you to this OCIA program. Becoming Catholic is a great spiritual adventure. This adventure is more than merely a human endeavor but a calling by the Holy Spirit to enter into a share of the divine life.
 

What is OCIA?

Order of Christian Initiation for Adults, OCIA, refers to the process of formation, faith sharing, and rituals marked by prayer, study and discussion by which the person becomes initiated into Christianity. This gradual process is meant to respect the freedom of the candidate so that they can understand what being a committed member of the Catholic Church involves. As you engage in this journey of faith, we invite you to bring your curiosity and questions. This program will explore the liturgical seasons and cover topics related to the Creed, Sacraments, Christian Morality, Prayer, and History.
 

“Let your religion be less of a theory and more of a love affair.”
 -G.K. Chesterton

Stages of OCIA

1. Inquiry: Period of Evangelization - Rite of Welcome
2. Period of Catechumenate - Rite of Election
3. Period of Purification & Enlightenment - Three Scrutinies, Sacraments of Initiation
4. Period of Mystagogy

 

Tips for Participating

• Be open: come ready to learn!
• Ask questions: explore your curiosity.
• Attendance: come to the meetings.
• Share: offer your experience and perspective.
• Pray for Wisdom: pray about your experience and ask Jesus for guidance.
• Participate in the Parish: consider attending mass and other parish activities.
• Mentors: talk to wise and trusted friends about their experience.
• Journal: record your thoughts and responses to questions and reflect on your journey.
• Read: Review and further explore discussed topics in the recommended resources.

Suggested Resources

• Ps. 139:1-16
• Ps. 42:2-6

• What questions do you have about the Church?
• Name a Catholic you admire. What do you admire about that person?

• Skim through the USCCA (United States Catechism for Adults)
• Read: USCCA Ch. 1 & 2
• CCC #27-49
• Audio: 7 reasons to be Catholic