What is OCIA?
Have you been thinking about joining the Catholic Church? The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is not just a series of classes. It is a personal journey of faith that introduces you to the teachings of Catholic Church. The OCIA journey will provide the essentials necessary for you to not only practice, but to live the Catholic faith. Most importantly, this journey will help you develop your personal relationship with Christ and it will show you what it really means to be one His disciples.
Who should come to OCIA?
- People who have never been baptized
- People who have practiced another faith and are now interested in the Catholic Church
- People who were baptized Catholic and have not received the remaining Sacraments
- People who are married to Catholics and would like to know more about the Catholic faith
- People who feel the prompting of God's Spirit
We welcome all and we are here to assist you on your faith journey!
How lond does it take to become a member of the Catholic Church?
Remember that OCIA is a personal faith journey so everyone's journey looks somewhat different. Those who have never been baptized are welcomed into the church through the sacraments of initiation during the Easter Vigil Mass, the holiest night of the liturgical year. The Easter Vigil Mass is celebrated the evening before Easter Sunday. For those individuals who are already baptized and seeking full reception into the Catholic Church, there is usually no specific time of the year to be welcomed into the Church. The timing for that is based upon the preparedness of the individual that includes a conversion of heart and a desire to become a disciple of Christ.
When does OCIA typically meet?
The OCIA team typically meets one evening during the week and occasionally on additional days as necessary. The OCIA team is very willing to work with your schedule.
How do I get started?
Starting is easy! Simply email Shayne Stanfield, one of our Pastoral Associates here at St. Joan of Arc Parish at sstanfield@joanofarc.org to schedule a time to meet and learn more about what your journey to become Catholic may look like. Please keep in mind that this is not intended for you to make any kind of commitment. This initial meeting is simply a step and every journey starts with a single step… so take that step because we look forward to meeting you!
