OCIA

The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults is the restoration of an ancient process of discerning and ritualizing stages of conversion, leading to sacramental initiation (Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist) into the Catholic Church.

 

It is a formative process involving past and present teachings, traditions and rites. The responsibility of the parish community in the OCIA process is through its witness, worship, service and catechesis. The community offers the invitation and support necessary for these men and women.

 

Each year in the United States, there are thousands and thousands of adults, either never baptized, or baptized in another Christian denomination, who become Catholic.

 

Currently, OCIA meets on Tuesday evenings at 6:30p.m at Sacred Heart.

 

When someone begins OCIA, they are not committing themselves to becoming Catholic at that time. In the first stage of OCIA, called the Inquiry Period, a person makes no other commitment than to begin finding out what Catholics believe. It is only at the Rite of Catechumenate (around the First Sunday of Advent) that the individual is asked to become a catechumen - a learner of the Faith. That lasts up through Lent when the catechumens are asked to make another commitment - that of the Elect - those who have elected or chosen to become Catholic at the Easter Vigil. Those who are already baptized make a profession of faith as Catholics and are confirmed and make their First Holy Communion as Catholics.

 

At any time, if a candidate does not feel ready to take the next step, they are certainly free to "put themselves on hold."

 

If you are interested in more information or in joining OCIA please contact Linda Higgins at lahiggins68@yahoo.com or contact the parish office.