The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA)

Thinking About Becoming Catholic?

Grow In Your Faith

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to carry out everything that I have commanded you. And know that I am with you always, until the end of the world.” Matthew 28: 19-20

A Faith Journey

The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) may serve your needs if you are:

• An adult thinking about becoming Catholic
• An adult wanting to be baptized
• A baptized Catholic Adult interested in preparing for Eucharist and/or Confirmation

The OCIA is a process, a faith journey, which prepares interested people to become Catholic. It does this through a series of steps and stages. The process takes place in the Catholic faith community and provides experiences and opportunities to grow in faith, knowledge, understanding, and discipleship in Christ.

The OCIA process forms participants in the Catholic faith and practices through regular worship, ritual celebrations, prayer, scripture, learning sessions on Catholic beliefs and teachings, service opportunities, and retreat times. Those who have already been baptized may celebrate Eucharist and/or Confirmation and come into the Catholic Church whenever they are fully ready. Those not yet baptized come fully into the Catholic Church through the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist at the Easter Vigil (the night before Easter Sunday).

OCIA For Children

For children, the OCIA process is adapted to accommodate their age and developmental level. Members of the St. Stephen’s community walk with the young people as companions and sponsors. Children/youth, parents, and sponsors attend sessions together and often worship together. During their time in the OCIA, children and youth reflect together on the Sunday scripture readings, grow in understanding of Catholic beliefs and practices, share and listen to faith stories, and recognize their call to the Catholic faith community. The process involves formation in the Gospel teachings, as well as Christian service.

If you are interested in becoming Catholic, please contact the Parish Office. 

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