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. It is an ongoing process that individuals can enter at any time. As inquirers grow in their relationship with Christ there are Rites (special celebrations) that celebrate their growing relationship with Jesus and his Church. After a period of catechesis, prayer and discernment, those who were previously baptized may be received into the Church at designated times throughout the year. Reception into the church for those who are not baptized takes place at the Easter Vigil.
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 provides adults the time and space to explore the Catholic faith and grow in what it means to have a relationship with Jesus and be part of the parish community. OCIA reaches out to anyone who has never been baptized, anyone baptized in another Christian tradition, and those baptized in the Catholic Church who have not received all three of the sacraments of initiation (baptism, first communion, confirmation).
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 provides adults the time and space to explore the Catholic faith and grow in what it means to have a relationship with Jesus and be part of the parish community. OCIA reaches out to anyone who has never been baptized, anyone baptized in another Christian tradition, and those baptized in the Catholic Church who have not received all three of the sacraments of initiation (baptism, first communion, confirmation).
What does the OCIA process look like?
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. This period of inquiry transitions to the period of the catechumenate as individuals discern their readiness to make a serious commitment with the intention of being received into the full communion of the Catholic Church.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. This period of inquiry transitions to the period of the catechumenate as individuals discern their readiness to make a serious commitment with the intention of being received into the full communion of the Catholic Church.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