Christian Initiation (OCIA)

Interested in learning more 

about the Catholic faith?

The Journey to Becoming Catholic: 
The Christian Initiation Process (OCIA)

The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is the Catholic Church's ancient and beautiful process for welcoming new members. Rooted in the practices of the early Church, it is a spiritual journey that reflects God's patient invitation to us. This process, which typically takes about two years, isn't about rushing to the finish line; it's about a gradual and profound conversion of the heart.

Phase 1: The Inquiry Phase

This is the beginning of your conversation with God and the Church.

• Fill out an inquiry form. If you have any problems, please contact Fr. Khoi via Monica 737-910-4135.

• Weekly Meetings on Tuesday 7-8:30pm in SB6 to explore the Catholic faith and ask questions. Welcome at any time.

• Schedule a Welcome Interview with Fr. Khoi. This is a one-on-one conversation about your story and your interest in the Catholic faith. It's a way for us to get to know you and determine the best starting point for your journey.

The Rite of Acceptance

This is the first major step in your public journey. You will formally declare your intention to become a Catholic, and the community will officially welcome you. Following this rite, those who are unbaptized are now called catechumens, and those who have been baptized in another Christian faith are called candidates.

• At the Rite of Acceptance you gain the rights and the responsibilities of the Catholic life. This means that you are declaring your intent to become a full member of the Church, you are now given the right of a Catholic Burial, and the support of the prayers of the community. You are also now responsible to attend Mass every Sunday with the faithful.

Phase 2: The Catechumenate

This is a time for deep spiritual formation and learning about the Catholic faith. It's an opportunity to grow in your relationship with Christ and the Church. This is typically at least the one year 

• Classes: We'll use the Credo program to explore the core teachings of the Catechism of the Catholic Church.

• Monthly Meetings: We'll gather for community-building, discussion, and spiritual reflection.

• Mass Attendance: Regular attendance at Sunday Mass is a vital part of your formation.You are also now responsible to attend Mass every Sunday with the faithful.

• Participation in the Easter Triduum. This is Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday Easter Vigil the year before your entry into the Church.

• Sponsors: You will be accompanied by a sponsor, a practicing Catholic who will walk with you and offer support. 

• A Participation in the Service of the Christian life. This should include involvement in the parish, as well as care for the poor and the suffering. 

• Retreats: Special retreats will be offered for focused prayer and reflection.

Phase 3: The Period of Enlightenment and Purification

This period, which coincides with the six weeks of Lent, is an intense time of spiritual reflection and preparation for the sacraments.

• Dismissals: After the Liturgy of the Word at Mass, the catechumens are "dismissed" with their sponsor to discuss the readings and their meaning.

• Scrutinies: These are special liturgical rites celebrated on three Sundays of Lent to pray for and strengthen you.

The Celebration of the Sacraments: Easter Triduum

These three days are the pinnacle of the liturgical year, celebrating the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.The celebration begins on Holy Thursday with the Mass of the Lord’s Supper and continues through Good Friday, and during the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday, you will be fully initiated into the Church.

• Reception of Sacraments: Unbaptized individuals will receive the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist. Validly Baptized Christians will make a Profession of Faith and receive Confirmation and Eucharist.

• Sponsors: Your sponsor will stand by your side during this profound moment.

• Community Celebration: The entire parish rejoices as you are welcomed as a new member of the Catholic Church.

Phase 4: Mystagogy

This final phase is a time for the newly initiated (called "neophytes") to reflect on their journey and to fully participate in the life of the Christian community. It helps you deepen your understanding of the mysteries of the faith and explore what it means to live a fully sacramental life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What if I was already baptized Catholic? If you were already baptized Catholic and are missing sacraments (First Communion and/or Confirmation), you are not a candidate for OCIA. Please contact Fiona for a separate sacramental preparation process.

Why does this process take so long? The OCIA is a journey of conversion, not just a class. It takes time for spiritual growth and integration into the community. God teaches us slowly and in stages. This process prepares us to receive His gift of grace fully and joyfully.

Q: What do I need for this process? A: You will need a sponsor. This is a practicing Catholic who will walk with you on this journey, offering support and encouragement. If you don't know a Catholic, the parish can help you find one.

Q: What if I am already baptized in another Christian faith? A: The OCIA process is still for you. You won't be re-baptized. Instead, you'll prepare to make a Profession of Faith and receive the Sacraments of Confirmation and the Eucharist.

Q: What if I wanted to receive communion at my wedding in a month? A: Unfortunately, receiving the Eucharist requires a period of preparation and catechesis. You must complete the OCIA process and be fully initiated into the Church before receiving Holy Communion.