Are you or anyone you know interested in learning more about the Catholic Church?

The OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults) is the process through which a person becomes a fully initiated member of the Catholic Faith. It is for:

• Adults and children of catechetical age (over 7 years) who have not been baptized
• Those who have been baptized in another Christian denomination who want to become Catholic
• Those who were baptized as infants in the Catholic Church but have not completed the Sacraments of Initiation (First Eucharist and/or Confirmation) and who have had no faith formation

How long does it take?

Each person is on a personal journey in his/her relationship with God. Time varies depending on the individual. We walk with you in this process.

Here at St. Joan of Arc Parish, the OCIA sessions for adults and for children are held on Sundays beginning with the 10 a.m. Mass, followed by meeting 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Do I have to commit to becoming Catholic if I enter the OCIA process?

No, the OCIA process is marked by opportunities for discernment along the way, and ultimately it is about one’s readiness and desire to be received into the Church.

The OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults) is a process for those interested in learning about the Catholic faith who come together every week to learn about the scriptures and the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church, and at the same time, to discover how God is present in their lives. 
 
The process is designed for those adults and children over the age of seven who are: 

• Not Baptized
• Baptized in another Christian tradition
• Baptized Catholic, but with no further religious training or reception of the sacraments of Eucharist and Confirmation.

 
There are five phases or periods in the OCIA process:  

The Period of Inquiry is the first phase of the OCIA. This is when people can ask questions about the Catholic faith, explore Sacred Scripture, and develop a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.  This period takes as long as necessary for the individual.  Once they, along with the OCIA team, discern they are ready to take the next step, they will participate in the Rite of Acceptance/ Rite of Welcome.
 
The Period of the Catechumenate is the second phase of the OCIA process.  This phase begins with the Rite of Acceptance (for the unbaptized)/ Rite of Welcome (for those who have been baptizedand are seeking full communion with the Catholic Church).  For this phase to begin, the individual must have a relationship with Jesus and a longing to continue on this faith journey.  Catechumens and Candidates begin to reflect more deeply on the teachings of the Catholic Church and how becoming Catholic will affect their lives. This phase also lasts as long as needed for the specific individual.
 
The Period of Purification and Enightenment is the third stage of the OCIA process. This period begins with the Rite of Election, which is celebrated at Blessed Sacrament Cathedral on the First Sunday of Lent and continues through the season of Lent. The Rite of Election includes the enrollment of names of all of the Catechumens (those who have not been baptized) from across the archdiocese. The bishop blesses them, and from this time until they are received into the Church they are called "the Elect."  The Candidates (those who have already been baptized) are blessed and called to continuing conversion.  This period is focused on prayer, reflection, and preparation to receive the Sacraments of Initiation.  
 
Celebrating the Sacraments of Initiation: The Sacraments of Initiation are celebrated at the Easter Vigil.  By the waters of Baptism, the Elect (those who have not been baptized) enter into the new life of grace as members of the Body of Christ. They and the candidates who were previously baptized are confirmed and receive their first Eucharist. Anointing with holy oil called chrism seals the initiation by the power of the Holy Spirit, and participation at the Eucharistic table marks full membership within the Catholic Church.
 
Mystagogy is the final stage of the OCIA process. This period lasts through the Easter Season until the Feast of Pentecost, with regular contact through the Neophyte Year. This completes the initiation process.  During the Period of Mystagogy, the newly-initiated individuals are invited to delve more deeply into the mystery of the Easter sacraments, and to discern how they are called to live the life of grace and the call to discipleship. 
 
For further information, please contact the Parish Office at (586) 777-3670.