Order of Christian Initiation for Adults

Our OCIA program is designed for adults who are:

• Not baptized but interested in learning about Baptism

• Baptized in another faith, but interested in becoming Catholic

• Baptized Catholic but missed out on religious instruction and the sacraments of First Holy Communion and Confirmation

• Interested in examining faith life, baptism, prayer, or the Catholic Church

Period of Inquiry
This is a time to share our stories and examine their meaning. It is also a time to begin hearing the stories of the Gospel. Participants ask questions about Jesus and about the Church.

Rite of Acceptance and Rite of Welcome
This is a first welcome into the community and moves a person into the Period of the Catechumenate.

Catechumenate
This is a time to deepen faith and conversion within the church community. It is a time to learn more about the Bible, Church teachings, worship, Sacraments, morality, and service. This period may last anywhere between 8 months to 2 years, depending on the needs of the individual.

Rite of Election
When a Catechumen is ready for initiation, they prepare for the Easter Vigil by first celebrating this Rite of Election on the first Sunday of Lent. They are brought to the Bishop for a blessing.

The Period of Purification and Enlightenment
During the season of Lent, the Elect spend time in prayer and self-examination as they prepare for initiation at the Easter Vigil.

Easter Vigil
Initiation through Baptism, Confirmation and First Holy Communion.

Mystagogy
During the Easter Season up until Pentecost, the newly baptized (called Neophytes) spend time understanding the sacramental life with an emphasis on the Gospel, Eucharist, and works of charity.

We offer OCIA classes Thursday evenings from 6:30PM – 8PM in the Parish Office. The current year begins on Thursday, September 5, 2024 and goes until Pentecost 2025. Please contact the Parish Office at 303-455-0447 to register.