OCIA

Any person who wants to be a Catholic Christian is welcome to join the Church by receiving the three Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Communion. Someone born into a Catholic family usually receives these Sacraments during their childhood, beginning with Baptism at birth and ending with Confirmation around the age of 14. For people who decide to join the Catholic Church as adults, preparation for Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Communion is offered through the Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA).

• Those not baptized who desire to become Catholic
  Those baptized in other Christian traditions who desire to become Catholic
• Those baptized Catholic but un-catechized who need to complete their Sacraments of Initiation (Confirmation and/or Holy Eucharist).
  Anyone who desires to learn about the Catholic faith.

OCIA (formerly RCIA) is a spiritual, holistic journey of faith formation in our Catholic way of life through prayer, worship, study, faith sharing and community service. It is NEVER just study alone. We currently meet weekly on Sunday mornings from 9:05 to 10:20 from September to July (with breaks for Christmas and New Year). We accept people year-round to learn about our faith but when you register determines when you celebrate your sacraments.

There is no set time period for the OCIA journey. It varies depending on the readiness of the individual.

• An adult who has not been baptized and has little to no knowledge of the Gospel of Jesus is recommended to spend at least a year on the OCIA journey.
• A person who has attended Mass for years with their Catholic spouse or family, but never received the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, or Holy Communion, may need only a few months of formation before they are ready to join the Church.
• An adult who was raised Catholic and actively practices their faith, but did not receive Confirmation or Holy Communion, may be ready to receive that Sacrament as soon as schedules allow. In short, the time of preparation depends on the faith maturity of the individual.

Any bishop or pastor can decide if a person is ready to join the Catholic Church. Typically, the decision is made after consulting with your local parish OCIA director, who relies on input from you and the OCIA ministry team.

New Catholics are usually baptized during the Easter Vigil Mass (celebrated on the Saturday evening before Easter Sunday). A person who has already been baptized, but has not received Confirmation or Holy Communion may receive these sacraments at a time of their pastor's discretion, with approval by the bishop.

If you are interested in exploring the Catholic faith or beginning the OCIA journey, you can email or call the parish office or the OCIA Director to schedule an initial appointment. You are also invited to drop in to any OCIA meeting. The meetings are scheduled on Sunday mornings from 9:05am
to 10:20am from September to July. Check out our calendar for meeting details. Walk-ins are always welcome!