Are you thinking about becoming Catholic? Are you a Baptized Catholic but never received Confirmation of First Holy Communion? We are here to answer all your questions and more. The first step is to reach out to the O.C.I.A. Coordinator, Deacon Jim, to find out how to begin the process.
Read more about the process
O.C.I.A. (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults formerly R.C.I.A.)
O.C.I.A. is a year-round process for adults desiring to join the Catholic faith or for those just seeking answers and not yet ready to make the commitment to join the Catholic Church. O.C.I.A. is also a method for baptized Catholics to complete their reception of the initiation sacraments (Confirmation and First Communion).
The OCIA is the official ritual text of the Catholic Church that prescribes the process by which a person who has never been baptized and has never been formed in the Christian faith is to be evangelized by the Word of God, formed (catechized) through the teachings and traditions of the Church, established in the Christian way of life, and welcomed into the Christian community through various periods and ritual steps (1-2, 4-8).
The OCIA also provides guidance for the formation of “particular circumstances”: persons baptized in other Christian communities who wish to be received into the Catholic Church and for the formation of baptized, uncatechized Catholics who wish to complete their initiation through confirmation and the Eucharist (3).
The manual used in the O.C.I.A. process states that the rite is designed for adults "...who after hearing the mystery of Christ proclaimed, consciously and freely seek the living God." The manual also states when speaking about those in the process "By God’s help they will be strengthened spiritually during their preparation and at the proper time receive the sacraments fruitfully."
The purpose of O.C.I.A. is to offer a year-round process with the objective of inviting catechumens (unbaptized) and candidates (baptized) to enter a deeper experience of faith through formation as disciples.
Who is O.C.I.A. For?
- Non-Catholics who are considering joining the Catholic Church and would like to learn more about the Catholic Faith.
- Those who have decided that they want to join the Catholic Church through Baptism (catechumen), or Profession of Faith (candidate).
- Those who were baptized Catholic as infants but never received religious education, Confirmation, or First Eucharist.
Frequently Asked Questions
If I start the process will I be required to join the church?
A. Eventually, you may want to choose to complete the process. Initially, many are just seeking to learn more about the Catholic Church before making the commitment to become Catholic. A commitment will not be necessary until the inquirer is ready.
What is the process and what is my commitment to the process?
A. By joining the O.C.I.A. process, you are asked to make a two-fold promise: 1) to be committed to the process itself; 2) to possess an open heart and mind that is accessible to the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Throughout the process, there are weekly sessions, various rites (special services/celebrations), and Mass attendance. As such, we are asking you to commit to the complete process.
What personal information must be provided?
A. We will need your religious background information and a copy of your baptismal record or certificate, if it exists. Furthermore, an initial meeting with the O.C.I.A. Coordinator is necessary. During the meeting specific questions will be asked that will help us to acquire a clear understanding of your background and provide and assurance that the O.C.I.A. process is explained and understood. Also, the information gleaned from the meeting will help us to get to know you so we can assist you through the process, especially concerning marital history that will determine whether there will be a need for an annulment or convalidation.
What if I am unable to do every session or other scheduled activity.
A. While we know that life circumstances can intrude during this process, it is absolutely essential that you make every attempt to be present for all sessions and other scheduled activities. If for some reason, you cannot be present, please contact the O.C.I.A. Coordinator in advance so that you have an opportunity to make up what you will have missed.
Must I be rebaptized if I have been previously baptized in another Christian faith?
A. No. There is only one Baptism; therefore, candidates will not be requested to be baptized. However, there are some religious baptisms not recognized by the Catholic Church and a Catholic baptism would then be necessary.
Where can I obtain my baptism record/certificate?
A. Contact the church where you were baptized since nearly all churches document their baptismal records. Your parents may have a copy of the baptism certificate. If the church does not exist anymore, or the record/certificate is irretrievable, then there are other means of obtaining this information if it becomes necessary.