Order of the Christian Initiation of Adults
We are happy that you are interested in learning more about becoming Catholic. We are available to answer any questions you have as you begin this spiritual process of conversion.
· What is OCIA? The Order of the Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is the conversion process by which non‐baptized adults (catechumens) and baptized Christians candidates) are fully initiated into the Catholic Church. OCIA is an opportunity for people to learn about the doctrine of the Catholic faith and enter into full communion with the Catholic Church.
· Who is OCIA For? OCIA is for adults who are interested in becoming fully initiated into the Catholic Church. OCIA is for baptized Catholics who have not received the Eucharist (First Communion) and Confirmation. OCIA is also for any baptized Christian who is seeking full communion with the Catholic Church. To become Catholic, baptized Christians make a Profession of Faith in the Catholic Church and celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation and the Eucharist. OCIA is also for anyone who is not baptized and would like to become Catholic. At the Easter Vigil, non‐baptized adults celebrate all three Sacraments of initiation which are Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist.
· How long is OCIA? St. Scholastica OCIA begins in September and ends just after Easter. OCIA is a process marked by different stages and rituals. OCIA begins with a period of inquiry. During inquiry, people who are interested in knowing more about the Catholic Church are invited to ask any questions they have about the Catholic faith. Inquiry is followed by The Catechumenate Period, which begins in December and ends after the Easter Vigil.
· What happens during Inquiry? During Inquiry, people who are interested in knowing more about OCIA or the Catholic Church are invited to ask any questions they have about becoming Catholic. The tone of the inquiry sessions is informal and informative. The first session is an overview of the RCIA process. The following sessions will focus on the topics outlined in the Journey of Faith series and presented by the OCIA team.
· What is an OCIA Sponsor and do I need one? An OCIA sponsor is an active Catholic willing to be a companion for someone who is going through the OCIA process. The Sponsor should be someone who will be present as much as possible for the OCIA sessions, Rituals and the Easter Vigil.
· What are the requirements to be a Sponsor? A sponsor must be a practicing Catholic, at least 16 years old, and confirmed. The qualities this person should possess are that this is someone you admire because of their unquestionable faith, someone who walks closely with God, and lives their life as closely to the Gospel teachings as possible. Non‐Catholic may serve as a witness, friend, and companion and may participate in the rites, but may not serve as the sponsor or godparent of record (see Canon 874). It is generally not advisable that a spouse or close family member serve as a sponsor. A father or mother may not serve as a sponsor to their child (see Canon 874)
For more information on OCIA or to become a sponsor or a team member, please contact Lindsay Gamino at 630.985.2351.