OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation for Adults)
(Previously known as RCIA aka Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults)
The Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA) is the Church’s primary path for adults who are exploring the Catholic faith or feel called to enter into full communion with the Catholic Church. OCIA welcomes both those who have never been baptized and those baptized in another Christian tradition who wish to become Catholic through the Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, and the Holy Eucharist.
Participants in OCIA generally fall into two groups:
Catechumens are individuals who have not yet been baptized and are preparing to receive all three Sacraments of Initiation.
Candidates are baptized Christians who desire to enter the Catholic Church and complete their initiation.
OCIA is a faith-formation journey rather than simply a class. Sessions meet for approximately one hour each week from September through Easter, with breaks during major holidays. Each gathering includes Church teaching, prayer, reflection, discussion, and opportunities for spiritual growth and discernment.
OCIA is a wonderful place to begin—whether you are seriously considering becoming Catholic or simply seeking to learn more about the faith. A wide range of information is shared throughout the process, helping participants gain a clearer understanding of Catholic beliefs, traditions, and practices. All are welcome to sign up, ask questions, and explore at their own pace in a supportive and welcoming environment.by having participants study the Gospels, teaching the tenets & customs of the Catholic Church, and encouraging a life dedicated to following in the footsteps of our Lord. In this process we hope to create an involvement & bond between catechumens/candidates and their parishes’ community.
To sign up for OCIA or for more information, please contact our Director of Religious Education at DLemma@stcindependence.org or by calling 859-363-4314.