CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS - OCIA

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What is OCIA?
The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults is a journey of exploration and discovery of the  Catholic Tradition.
Who is it for?
For people ages 7 and up who are in one of the following categories:
  • Unbaptized;
  • Baptized in another faith tradition;
  • Baptized Catholic but has not received the sacraments of Reconciliation, Eucharist, and Confirmation.
Behold, Jesus stands at the door and knocks. If you hear Jesus' voice and open the door, He will enter your house and dine with you, and you with Him. -Revelation 3:20
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​How does it work?
While each person's journey of faith is unique, the Church has established some standard steps marked by rites. Each rite is preceded by a period or stage during which participants receive the formation needed to fully celebrate the coming rite.
PERIOD
  1. INQUIRY: a period of exploration and reflection on the mystery of Salvation and God's love for humanity.
  2. CATECHUMENATE: It is a time of more intense preparation for the sacraments of initiation.
RITE
  1. ACCEPTANCE: ​ The rite in which participants express their intention to follow the way of Christ into the order of catechumens.
  2. ELECTION: The candidates become a member of the elect - chosen by God - to enter His Church.

What is its purpose?
  • To develop a relationship with Jesus Christ;
  • To learn about Catholic teachings and practices;
  • To be initiated into the Catholic Church.​

When does it begin?
​The sessions begin in mid-August each year.

​How long is it?
Because the OCIA is a personal journey, there is no set length for the process. Most individuals travel through the process in about a year but some prefer to delay their decision for a while longer. Others, already one with the community through baptism (either in the Catholic Church or through another faith tradition) may be ready sooner. The process and its rituals adapt to the needs of each individual.
When is the celebration of the Sacraments?
Every year, at Easter Vigil.

    OCIA INQUIRY