Becoming Catholic
I was blown away right from the start of OCIA by the love and care shown to us by the entire OCIA leadership and sponsor team. They gave so willingly of their time and talents so that we could learn and grow in our faith. Members outside of OCIA have also been so kind and welcoming. I have felt God's love through all of these members, and I have truly come home! // OCIA Candidate, 2024
Welcome!Do you know the secret to finding real joy and peace? Are you looking to be involved in a community that makes a difference? Are you weary of the values that society offers? I invite you to come join other interested adults who are exploring the Catholic faith as they respond to God’s invitation to a deeper relationship.
-Stacy Stang, Managing Director of Worship |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA)?
The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is the process by which those who wish to join the Catholic faith community are welcomed and introduced to the beliefs and practices of the Church. For those not yet baptized, this process leads to the Easter Vigil where they receive the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist. Those who have been previously baptized in another Christian tradition are invited to participate fully in the Church through the sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist.
For adults who sense a desire to become members of the Catholic Church, OCIA is the manner in which the journey to Catholic Christianity unfolds. OCIA is the way interested adults explore the Catholic faith. OCIA reaches out to anyone who has never been baptized or to anyone baptized in another Christian tradition and is interested in becoming Catholic.
For adults who sense a desire to become members of the Catholic Church, OCIA is the manner in which the journey to Catholic Christianity unfolds. OCIA is the way interested adults explore the Catholic faith. OCIA reaches out to anyone who has never been baptized or to anyone baptized in another Christian tradition and is interested in becoming Catholic.
What are the steps to becoming Catholic?
Becoming Catholic is not so much about steps as it is growing in a relationship with Jesus. The journey is different for every person and we do our best to honor each person’s call.
After making an initial contact with Our Lady of Light, the inquirer meets with the OCIA director to have a personal conversation and an opportunity to ask questions. Inquirers then begin gathering with others who are also interested in coming into the Church. They will meet on a regular basis that may be determined by the group. For those who feel ready, they may enter the more formal formation process as it begins in late August. This will eventually culminate in being received into the Church at Easter and celebrating the Mystagogia in the weeks following.
After making an initial contact with Our Lady of Light, the inquirer meets with the OCIA director to have a personal conversation and an opportunity to ask questions. Inquirers then begin gathering with others who are also interested in coming into the Church. They will meet on a regular basis that may be determined by the group. For those who feel ready, they may enter the more formal formation process as it begins in late August. This will eventually culminate in being received into the Church at Easter and celebrating the Mystagogia in the weeks following.
What is a sponsor?
Sponsors are the link through which candidates become exposed to the various ways in which members of the parish community already serve in some form of ministry.
Sponsors are not chosen for “what they know,” but because they are people who are willing to walk with others on this journey of faith. Sponsors are traveling companions to those going through the OCIA process. Sponsors are friends, companions, and guides along this journey. A sponsor listens to his/her candidate’s faith, questions, and doubts, and shares their own faith experience.
A sponsor does have to be a practicing Catholic and has to have received the Initiation Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist. A sponsor comes to the weekly sessions and the special rites with his/her candidate, encourages his/her candidate and is willing to share his/her time and faith.
Sponsors are not chosen for “what they know,” but because they are people who are willing to walk with others on this journey of faith. Sponsors are traveling companions to those going through the OCIA process. Sponsors are friends, companions, and guides along this journey. A sponsor listens to his/her candidate’s faith, questions, and doubts, and shares their own faith experience.
A sponsor does have to be a practicing Catholic and has to have received the Initiation Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist. A sponsor comes to the weekly sessions and the special rites with his/her candidate, encourages his/her candidate and is willing to share his/her time and faith.
It is such a great experience to be able to help someone learn more fully about our Catholic faith - our traditions, teachings, and cultivating their relationship with God - but the most important part is helping them change their lives forever! It is an honor to be part of the OCIA program. I hope and pray that God will continue to strengthen their faith. // Bernadette H., OCIA Sponsor 2024