We gather on Tuesday evenings from 7:00 PM to 8:15 PM, starting on September 9, 2025. To learn more about the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) process, please review the information below or contact the Rectory Office. You may also complete the Registration Form (below) and email it to [email protected] for additional details. The class schedule, including dates and topics, is provided below.
Welcome to the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) We are honored to accompany you on your spiritual journey as you prepare to receive the Sacraments of Initiation—Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation—through the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA). This process offers a sacred opportunity to deepen your relationship with God and fully embrace life in the Church. Whether you are unbaptized, baptized in another Christian tradition, or a baptized Catholic who has not yet received the sacraments of Eucharist and Confirmation, we welcome you to walk with us in faith. The OCIA is a transformative path of learning, growth, and conversion, as you prepare to encounter Christ more fully through the sacraments. Together, we will explore the richness of the Catholic faith and move toward deeper participation in the life of the Church.
A Special Welcome to Those Baptized in Another Christian Tradition If you have already been baptized in another Christian tradition, the OCIA process invites you to enter into a deeper union with the Catholic Church—an ancient and universal tradition. While your baptism has already made you a member of Christ’s Body, the Church now welcomes you to deepen your understanding of the faith and to fully embrace the sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist. At the Easter Vigil, you will have the opportunity to make a profession of faith, publicly declaring your desire to be welcomed into the Catholic Church. This moment of unity is profound, as you affirm your commitment to the teachings of the Church and to the community of believers. Through this profession, you will be fully initiated into the Catholic faith, continuing your journey as a disciple of Jesus Christ in the universal Church.
Overview of the OCIA Process: The journey of initiation into the Catholic community is one of conversion. Rooted in the practices of the early Church, as described in historical documents from the first five centuries, this process is designed as a journey of faith. It is divided into four continuous phases, each reflecting the participant’s growth in faith and spiritual development. Key milestones along this journey are celebrated publicly by the whole parish community, marking significant steps in the process.
Inquiry (Pre-Catechumenate) – Period of Inquiry - LINK TO INQUIRY HANDOUTS (Q) The journey begins with a period of inquiry, where you will meet with our team to ask any questions about the Catholic faith. This is a relaxed and open time for learning about the Church, its teachings, and practices. Once you are ready to make an initial commitment to continue, you will celebrate the Rite of Entrance into the Catechumenate at a Sunday Mass. At this celebration, the catechumen (unbaptized) or candidate (baptized in another Christian tradition) will be joined by a sponsor of their choosing. A sponsor can be any fully initiated and practicing member of the faith community who is over 16 years old.
CATECHUMENATE – Period of Learning - LINK TO CATECHUMENATE HANDOUTS (C) In this phase, you will engage in a deeper study of the faith, focusing on the teachings of the Church, Sacred Scripture, and the life of Jesus Christ. This stage is marked by regular meetings with fellow candidates and catechists, where you will explore the core of Catholic belief and grow in understanding.
LENT – Period of Purification and Enlightenment - LINK TO ENLIGHTENMENT HANDOUTS (E) During Lent, those preparing for the Sacraments of Initiation enter a time of purification and enlightenment. This phase is characterized by spiritual reflection and preparation, including the celebration of the Rite of Election and other rites designed to prepare you for your initiation into the Church. What to Expect:
Special liturgical rites
A focused period of prayer and penance
Final preparations for receiving the sacraments
EASTER VIGIL – Sacraments of Initiation The culmination of the OCIA process, and the highlight of the entire Church year, takes place during the Easter Vigil. Here, the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist are received. In ceremonies dating back to 200 A.D., the entire community renews its baptismal promises as the elect and candidates make their profession of faith. Following the Baptism of the elect, those baptized in another Christian tradition will make their profession of faith in the Catholic Church and be received into full communion. The Rite of Reception is followed by Confirmation and First Communion for all newly initiated, now called neophytes.
MYSTAGOGY -- Period of Post-Initiation - LINK TO MYSTAGOGY HANDOUTS (M) The final phase, known as mystagogia, comes from the word "mystery." This is a time of continued formation and reflection on the deep meaning of the sacraments you have received. It offers an opportunity to reflect on your new identity as a member of the Church and to deepen your understanding of the mysteries of our faith. During this phase, we encourage you to become more involved in parish life, to serve others, and to continue your journey of prayer and spiritual growth.