What is OCIA?
OCIA stands for the Order of Christian Initiation for Adults. It is a four-step process by which a soul is brought into the fullness of the Catholic Sacramental Faith by means of celebration of the Liturgical Year; studying Holy Scripture, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and church documents; and participating in service and charity.
The first process is the INQUIRY PHASE in which there is no commitment to become Catholic. This is the question-and-answer phase where we present what it means to be a Catholic and help you to determine how you are being called to join us. The process will involve an in-person interview and filling out an information form. Then we will help you pick which path best fits your sacramental needs.
The second phase is the CATECHUMENATE. This is when a commitment is made, and classes are tailored more for the candidate to learn how to participate in the liturgies of the Catholic Church within the parish community. Attendance of Holy Mass is recommended on Saturday nights or Sundays.
The third phase is ENLIGHTENMENT AND PURIFICATION. This is when most of the ceremonies take place that prepare the soul to receive the sanctifying graces it will receive at Easter. Attendance at Holy Mass is required.
The fourth and final phase is CHRISTIAN MYSTAGOGY where the newly confirmed souls are encouraged to put their newfound faith into action through service and charity.
If you are interested in joining the Catholic church or want to take your faith life a little deeper than please join us! Our in-person sessions are every Wednesday, in McMullan Hall at 6:30 pm and will last approximately 90 minutes. We are excited to meet with you!
The first process is the INQUIRY PHASE in which there is no commitment to become Catholic. This is the question-and-answer phase where we present what it means to be a Catholic and help you to determine how you are being called to join us. The process will involve an in-person interview and filling out an information form. Then we will help you pick which path best fits your sacramental needs.
The second phase is the CATECHUMENATE. This is when a commitment is made, and classes are tailored more for the candidate to learn how to participate in the liturgies of the Catholic Church within the parish community. Attendance of Holy Mass is recommended on Saturday nights or Sundays.
The third phase is ENLIGHTENMENT AND PURIFICATION. This is when most of the ceremonies take place that prepare the soul to receive the sanctifying graces it will receive at Easter. Attendance at Holy Mass is required.
The fourth and final phase is CHRISTIAN MYSTAGOGY where the newly confirmed souls are encouraged to put their newfound faith into action through service and charity.
If you are interested in joining the Catholic church or want to take your faith life a little deeper than please join us! Our in-person sessions are every Wednesday, in McMullan Hall at 6:30 pm and will last approximately 90 minutes. We are excited to meet with you!
