Do you find yourself being drawn to learn more about joining the Catholic Church? You probably have lots of questions. The Order of Christian Initiation (OCIA) is a journey of faith where we reflect on those questions, learn about the faith, and discover how God may be calling us.
OCIA starts September 7, 2025, and meets every Sunday morning after the 8:30 a.m. Mass. We usually start at about 9:15 am, unless Mass goes long, and finish at 10:45 a.m. We meet in the Dorothy Day room in the House of Mercy (Building E).
After the RITE of Welcome (which happens at the end of November), we are dismissed from the 8:30 am Mass after the Homily and Prayers of the Faithful.
The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is a supportive process that helps individuals discern if they want to become fully initiated members of the Catholic Church. It is intended for those who are unbaptized, baptized in another Christian tradition, or baptized Catholic but have not completed their sacraments of Confirmation and First Eucharist.
Stages of OCIA:
Inquiry (Pre-Catechumenate):
This initial stage is a time of exploration and questioning. Individuals are invited to learn about the Catholic faith, ask questions, and discern if they feel called to continue on the journey.
Rite of Acceptance and Catechumenate:
If individuals decide to move forward, they participate in the Rite of Acceptance, which marks the beginning of the Catechumenate stage. As Catechumens (unbaptized) or Candidates (baptized in another Christian tradition), participants start formal instruction in the teachings of the Church. This stage involves weekly sessions, study of Scripture, and immersion into the life of the Church community.
Rite of Election and Period of Purification and Enlightenment:
As Lent begins, Catechumens and Candidates enter the Period of Purification and Enlightenment. This is a time of deep spiritual preparation, reflection, and prayer. The Rite of Election is celebrated at the beginning of this period, where the Church formally acknowledges participants as they prepare for the sacraments.
Sacraments of Initiation:
The culmination of the OCIA journey occurs during the Easter Vigil, where Catechumens receive the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist, and Candidates receive Confirmation and Eucharist. This celebration marks their full initiation into the Catholic Church.
Mystagogy:
After receiving the sacraments, new Catholics enter the period of Mystagogy, which continues throughout the Easter season. During this time, they reflect on their experiences, deepen their understanding of the faith, and fully integrate into the parish community.
Invitation to Join:
The OCIA process is an invitation to embark on a transformative journey of faith, guided by the teachings of the Catholic Church and supported by a welcoming community. Whether you are just beginning to explore your faith or are ready to take the next step, OCIA provides a path to spiritual growth and full participation in the life of the Church.
For more information, please contact Dr. Lenny Kelley using the information below.