OCIA - Order of Christian Initiation of Adults

Introduction

Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA)   is an ongoing process of initiation that guides and instructs adults desiring the sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist and/or Confirmation and provides a faith journey for non-Catholics who wish to learn more about the Catholic faith. The program begins each fall and concludes with Pentecost. Participants meet weekly for faith sharing and instruction, participate in Sunday liturgies and special ceremonies.

Learn More About the Process of OCIA

OCIA Inquiry Form

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults?

    The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults, or OCIA, is the process that takes place within the Catholic Church by which “adults who, after hearing the mystery of Christ proclaimed, consciously and freely seek the living God and enter the way of faith and conversion as the Holy Spirit opens their hearts.”  More simply, it is the process by which those persons who are unbaptized (or have been baptized in another faith tradition), discern if they are called to be baptized in (or received into) the Roman Catholic Church.  The process used today is very similar to the process used over the millennia to, with God’s help, spiritually strengthen and prepare the participants so that at the proper time they will receive the Sacraments (Baptism, Confirmation, and First Communion) fruitfully.

  • How long does OCIA take?

    The OCIA process “takes as long as it takes” for each individual.  If a participant decides, after prayer and participation in the learning and other activities of the OCIA, that they do not feel the Catholic Church is the right place for them, that is fine.  Just because someone expresses an interest in the Catholic Church and attends a few OCIA meetings, does not mean they are on autopilot or somehow committed to becoming Catholic.

  • Who can participate in OCIA?

    OCIA is for adults who are unbaptized, or were baptized in faith traditions other than the Catholic Church, and seek Baptism or reception into the Roman Catholic Church.  

  • What is an OCIA Sponsor or Godparent?

     A sponsor is a practicing Catholic in good standing with the Church, who will walk with you on your journey through OCIA.  You, and your sponsor, will meet to pray with you, talk about how things are going, and answer any questions you may have.  A sponsor stands with you during the many OCIA Rites, and is with you at the Easter Vigil when you are received into the Church.

  • What topics do we cover in OCIA?

    The topics we cover range from prayer, the Mass, the Sacraments, Church history, Catholic Culture, and Catholic teaching on important topics such as sin and Grace.  We also take a detailed look at Mary, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, God the Father, and the Trinity.

  • How much does OCIA cost?

    There are no fees or payments for participation.