The Order of Christian Initiation (OCIA)

OCIA, which stands for Order of Christian Initiation of Adults, is a process through which non-baptized men and women enter into the Catholic Church. It includes several stages marked by study, prayer and rites at Mass.

Are you a Baptized Catholic but never received First Holy Communion or Confirmation? Are you a Baptized Christian and have wondered about the Catholic Faith? Are you and your spouse civilly married but desire to get married in the Catholic Church? Have you been told by a priest you are not to present yourself for Holy Communion?

If you have answered YES, to any of the above questions, please join Fr. John for the first of many conversations. Date TBD - please check the bulletin or Flocknote for an established date. Inquiry sessions will begin in August.

What is meant when people refer to men and women coming into “full communion with the Church?”

Coming into full communion with the Catholic Church describes the process for entrance into the Catholic Church for men and women who are baptized. These individuals make a profession of faith but they are not baptized again.

To prepare for this reception the people, who are called “candidates,” participate in a formation program to help them understand and experience the specific teachings and practices of the Catholic Church.

OCIA meets yearly from September through Easter.