Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA)

Sacraments

OCIA

Each year, thousands of people enter the Catholic Church during the Easter Vigil through the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA). OCIA is a journey of faith, conversion, prayer, and formation for those who are discerning a call to become Catholic.

The Period of Evangelization and Precatechumenate

The journey begins when a person becomes interested in Jesus Christ and the Catholic Church. This initial period provides an opportunity to ask questions, learn about the faith, and discern God's call. Those who wish to continue may participate in the Rite of Entrance into the Order of Catechumens and become Catechumens.

The Period of the Catechumenate

During the Catechumenate, individuals deepen their relationship with Christ and learn about Sacred Scripture, Catholic teaching, prayer, and the Sacraments. The length of this period varies according to each person's needs and spiritual journey. Together with the priest and parish OCIA team, the Catechumen discerns readiness to receive the Sacraments of Initiation.

The Rite of Election

Usually celebrated on the First Sunday of Lent, the Rite of Election is celebrated at the cathedral with the diocesan bishop. Catechumens publicly express their desire for Baptism, and their names are entered into the Book of the Elect. From this point, they are known as the Elect.

Purification and Enlightenment

During Lent, the Elect enter a final period of spiritual preparation called the Period of Purification and Enlightenment. Through prayer, reflection, and the support of the parish community, they prepare to receive the Sacraments of Initiation.

The Easter Vigil

At the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday, the Elect receive the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and the Holy Eucharist, becoming fully initiated members of the Catholic Church.

Mystagogy

Following the Easter Vigil, the newly initiated enter the Period of Mystagogy, continuing their formation and reflecting more deeply on the Sacraments, Sacred Scripture, and their new life in Christ. They are also encouraged to discover how they can serve Christ and participate in the life and mission of the Church.

Reception into Full Communion

OCIA also serves Christians who have already been baptized in another Christian faith and are seeking full communion with the Catholic Church. These individuals, known as Candidates, are not baptized again. After a period of appropriate formation and discernment, they make a profession of faith and receive the Sacraments of Confirmation and the Eucharist, as appropriate.

OCIA is a journey, not simply a program. It is an opportunity to encounter Jesus Christ, discover the beauty of the Catholic faith, and discern how God is calling each person to live as a disciple within His Church.

Please contact the parish office to learn more about OCIA.