Becoming Catholic-OCIA

The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (previously RCIA) is the process by which people can question, search, and inquire into the Catholic faith. It is a journey which leads many to seek full membership in our Church. For others, this journey may not lead to full membership. Either way, all are welcome to come and see, to ask questions, and to look more deeply.

Who is the OCIA for?

Seekers and inquirers are non-baptized adults who desire to be fully initiated into the Roman Catholic Church and/or baptized adult Christians who desire full communion in the Roman Catholic Church.

Adults or older children who have not been baptized and desire to join the Church are invited to the ancient celebration of the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults. During this process, which is marked by regular ritual acts, participants are introduced to the liturgy, the teachings, and the life of the Catholic Church.

What happens in OCIA?

OCIA is a Journey, a process that proceeds over weeks and months. It has several steps:

• Pre-Catechumenate
• Catechumenate
• Rite of Election
• Sacraments of Initiation
• Mystagogy