OCIA, which stands for the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults, is the process through which adults enter the Catholic Church, or those who are already Catholic can complete the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist). This process includes several stages marked by study, prayer, and rites at Mass. The initial stage is simply an inquiry into the Catholic faith. Through a series of weekly meetings, inquirers are given the opportunity to learn more about the Catholic faith. With the formal Rite of Acceptance at Mass, the un-baptized participants in the OCIA are known as ‘catechumens’ and those already baptized as ‘candidates.’ The catechumens and candidates undergo a process of conversion, deepening their relationship with God as they study the Gospel and the teachings of the Church. At the Easter Vigil Mass, the catechumens receive the Sacraments of Initiation, and the candidates receive Confirmation and/or Eucharist, and are received into the Church.
Are you interested in finding out more about the Catholic Church? Is your spouse, fiancé, neighbor, or friend interested?
The OCIA process enables those who are interested in finding out more about the Catholic faith to come and “find out what it is all about”. Most often people come because they are invited. Be the voice of Christ and offer the first invitation. OCIA is for anyone unbaptized or baptized in another Christian tradition, as well as Catholic who are baptized but have never celebrated Confirmation or received First Communion.
There is no commitment placed on any one who may be interested or has questions. If you are interested or know someone who may be interested, please contact Sr. Mary Ellen Brinovec, OSU at 216-321-0024 to set a time to meet and answer questions regarding the process.