THE ORDER
OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS  [BECOMING CATHOLIC]

 Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA)

“The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults…is designed for adults who, upon hearing the proclamation of the mystery of Christ as the Holy Spirit opens their hearts, consciously and freely seek the living God and undertake the journey of faith and conversion. By God’s power and in their own preparation, they will be strengthened with spiritual help and at the proper time will fruitfully receive these Sacraments.”

(Order of Christian Initiation of Adults, Introduction, revised translation, 2024)

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OCIA refers to the process of inquiry, learning, conversion, and preparation leading to the reception of the Sacraments of Initiation in the Catholic Church (Baptism, Holy Eucharistic, Confirmation) and continuing with a period of Mystagogy, going deeper into the Catholic faith and how to live as a Catholic Christian. The process typically takes about one year, but can last longer, if needed. Inquiry sessions about OCIA begin in the spring and classes begin in September.

 

--- Who is this for?---

-Those exploring Catholicism, whether unbaptized or baptized in a different Christian faith

-Catholics wanting to complete their Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, First Holy Communion, Confirmation

-Fully initiated Catholics who want to learn more about the riches of the Catholic faith