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OCIA
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Didn’t this used to be called RCIA?
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The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is modeled on the initiation ritual of the early Christian church. It is an experience of personal formation and spiritual growth which incorporates prayer, study, reflection, and discernment in a combination of public rituals and community preparations. It is the way unbaptized persons become Christian within the Roman Catholic tradition.
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We offer year-round formation, which means your journey begins when you are ready. Participants attend Sunday Mass and regular formation sessions.
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There is a series of sacred rites throughout the four phases leading to a solemn public celebration of the Sacrament of Baptism, Confirmation, and First Eucharist. This celebration generally takes place at Easter Vigil Mass.
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A sponsor and prayer partner, as well as other members of the Catholic faith community, accompany you throughout your journey.
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Steps in the OCIA process:
- Inquiry – During this initial stage of OCIA, also known as the precatechumenate, individuals first meet with the adult faith formation director and discuss their interest in the church. They can ask questions and are introduced to the Gospel. There is no set time period for this phase.
- Catechumenate/Rite of Acceptance – When a person has decided to join the Catholic Church, he or she begins the Catechumenate. This begins with the Rite of Acceptance, a rite held during Sunday liturgy in which they express their readiness to accept the Gospel and be received into the Catholic Church. During this stage, which can last for months or even years, the catechumens formally study Church teaching.
- Purification & Enlightenment/Rite of Election – This period takes place during Lent. Beginning with the Rite of Election on the First Sunday of Lent, catechumens and candidates begin a final preparation for initiation into the Catholic faith. During the Period of Purification, they also participate in several rites called Scrutinies during parish liturgies.
- Initiation – At the Easter Vigil, catechumens are baptized and confirmed; candidates are confirmed.
- Mystagogy – The word Mystagogy comes from Greek meaning “interpretation of mystery.” During this final period of OCIA, the new Catholics (called neophytes) deepen their understanding of the paschal mystery and make it a part of their lives.
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For more information about OCIA, please contact:
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Deacon Tom O’Brienociasaintandrew.orgDirector of Adult Faith Formation, OCIA Coordinator
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Meetings
There are weekly meetings for Adults and Teens who seek baptism after the 11:00 a.m. Mass each week.
We look forward to meeting you!
Please complete this form so we can get to know you better.
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