Become Catholic

The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is the process by which adults become members of the Roman Catholic Church. It is a process of prayer, discussion, study, and celebration for:

1. Unbaptized adults who wish to learn more about the Catholic faith with the possibility of being baptized into the Catholic Church; and

2. Baptized Christians of other faith traditions who would like to learn more about the Catholic faith with the possibility of making a Profession of Faith in the Catholic Church.

Most members of the Catholic Church were baptized as infants. At an older age, they received their First Communion and were confirmed. Others previously baptized in other Christian traditions become Catholics after making a solemn profession of faith, and receiving Communion and Confirmation. This can be done at any time of year, but in imitation of the early Church, it is customary to be received into the Church at the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday, the evening before Easter.

OCIA is the Church's way of helping people become members of the Roman Catholic Church. It is concerned with the formation of a person into a total understanding and belief in the Church community, so that he or she can comfortably pray and serve with that community. It is a gradual process which culminates with the sacraments of initiation, Baptism for those not already baptized, Confirmation, and First Communion.

OCIA should not be confused with adult education. It is a process of assimilating people into a Catholic way of life by coming to an understanding of the Church and its doctrines, beliefs, and practices. It is not a hurried process, but a deliberate, personal process of growth and understanding that takes as long as it takes. For many, the time is about 12 months.

OCIA is also a parish community process in the sense that the rites or celebrations that occur throughout the process always take place in the presence of the Church community. The preparation of persons for the initiation rites is the responsibility of the entire parish, represented by the OCIA team. The Church wants to welcome all adults who are interested in the Roman Catholic faith.

OCIA is designed to assist in learning Catholic Christian teachings, accepting Catholic values and morality, developing a life of prayer, and becoming active members of the parish faith community. OCIA offers a relaxed, informative atmosphere with open discussion for those who seek to become members of our Catholic faith.

Please feel free to contact us if you wish to learn more about the OCIA process.  New inquirers are welcome at any time!