The Catholic faith is a precious gift from God. If you feel that God is offering you this gift, we are here to help you explore the possibility of becoming a full member of the Catholic Church.
Whether you have never been baptized or baptized in another faith tradition and seek full communion with the Catholic Church, we will walk with you through the stages of the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA).
Be assured that we are here to welcome and support you as you discern this important call in your life.
We also have the Order of Christian Initiation of Children (OCIC) for children in grade 3 and above who have not been baptized. We will be happy to discuss the OCIC with you as well.
About the Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA)
Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is a process through which men and women enter the Catholic Church. It includes several stages marked by study, prayer and rites at Mass. They undergo a process of conversion as they study the Gospel, profess faith in Jesus and the Catholic Church, and receive the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Eucharist. The OCIA process follows the ancient practice of the church, was restored by the Second Vatican Council as the normal way adults prepare for Baptism, and is the normative way of welcoming adults into our Catholic family. Our process typically runs from September through Easter.
What Takes Place in the OCIA?
- The Inquiry: A time for searching for God, asking questions about the basics of the Catholic Faith.
- The Catechumenate: A time for being informed by the Gospel and of learning our faith more in depth.
- Purification & Enlightenment: Takes place during Lent. It is a time for reflection and prayer in preparation for the Celebration of the Easter Vigil.
- Mystagogia: Is the time after the Easter Celebration to Deepen the understanding of what it means to become Eucharist and live Christ’s mission in the world.
If you are interested in becoming a Catholic and joining our family via the OCIA process, please contact the parish office at 440-238-5555 and ask to speak to Deacon Paul Kutolowski.