Becoming Catholic / OCIA

Formerlyknown as RCIA

The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (O.C.I.A.) is a faith formation process designed for adults exploring the Catholic faith as a way to deepen their relationship with Christ, those interested in learning more about the Catholic Church, and those who desire to become Catholic. OCIA is a time of preparation prior to initiation into the Church and includes formation in liturgy, prayer, doctrine, service, Christian morality, and traditions of the Church within a community of people seeking deeper faith.

The OCIA Process
Stage One: Inquiry
The first stage of the process, "Inquiry" or the "Pre-Catechumenate" stage, is a time to explore questions about the Church, to begin to form an appreciation for the liturgy and Scripture readings heard at Sunday Mass and gain an understanding of the basic beliefs of the Catholic Church. This takes place in a small group setting in a casual conversational style environment on Sunday mornings at 11:30 AM, or by appointment.

Commitment is not required in this stage, attendance is voluntary and there is no obligation to join the Church at this time. A person seeking to learn about the Church may remain in this period of preparation for as long as desired, but the opportunity to transition into the more formal instruction of the Catechumenate is offered typically three times per year, when those individuals who feel they are prepared to move forward are called to celebrate the Rites of Acceptance and Welcome into the Order of Catechumens.
 
Stage Two: Catechumenate
When ready, those desiring to become Catholic and receive the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Communion will move into the next phase of OCIA known as the "Catechumenate" stage. The entry into this stage begins with the Rites of Acceptance and Welcome into the Order of Catechumens. People preparing for Baptism during this period are now called catechumens; those already baptized are now called candidates. The primary focus of this stage is to receive instruction and formation in the Liturgy, the liturgical year, God’s Word, Catholic doctrine, service, outreach, and incorporation into the life of our parish community and the wider Church. Conversion is a gradual process and time is given for faith to take deep root in those wanting to become Catholic. The length of time in this stage varies depending on several factors, such as when a person joins the process and how much or how little formal religious or spiritual training a person has had in Christian faith and practice.

Commitment is required at this stage. Participants attend the 10:30 a.m. Sunday Mass and are dismissed after the homily to “break open” and reflect on the Word of God that was proclaimed at Mass. The Dismissal session ends when Mass ends, at about 11:30 AM. Participants also attend Catechesis on Wednesday evenings from 7:30 to 9:00 PM All of this is done in a relaxed, faith-sharing atmosphere that invites a deeper relationship with God.
 
Stage Three: Purification and Enlightenment
When participants have completed their formal instruction and are ready to receive the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Communion, they enter the next stage known as the "Purification and Enlightenment" period. This is a time of prayer, penitential rituals, discernment and spiritual preparation for the sacraments they will receive. This stage occurs once a year during the Lent season and concludes at the Easter Vigil. Commitment in the stage from the participant and Sponsor/Godparent is required, which includes the same commitment as the previous stage as well as participation in a spiritual retreat and various Rites.
 
Stage Four: Mystagogia
Once fully initiated into the Church, the newly initiated Catholics gather again after the Easter Vigil to reflect on their experience receiving the sacraments. These meetings focus on deepening understanding of the sacraments, spiritual growth, parish life and living morally. Meetings culminate on Pentecost Sunday. Commitment during this stage is highly encouraged but not required.

CLICK HERE for Frequently Asked Questions about Becoming Catholic.