OCIA Becoming Catholic

What is OCIA?
OCIA stands for "Order of Christian Initiation of Adults." Each year on Holy Saturday during the Easter Vigil liturgy, thousands of people around the world become baptized Christians in the Catholic Church. OCIA is the process through which they are formed and educated in the faith.

The steps of OCIA
To begin the OCIA process, individuals must possess a desire to gain knowledge of Jesus Christ and the Catholic Church. The beginning period is known as the Period of Evangelization and Precatechumenate. "Inquirers" seek acceptance into the Order of Catechumens, through the Rite of Acceptance at Mass. Then they enter a period known as the "Catechumenate," which usuallly lasts up to a year. Next they undertake the Rite of Election, which includes their public expression of desire for the Sacrament of Baptism, and recording their name into the Book of the Elect. They spend the season of Lent preparing, praying, studying, and attending spiritual direction. The celebration of the Sacraments of Initiation takes place during the Easter Vigil Liturgy on Holy Saturday. Then they become fully initiated into the Catholic Church. But the process does not end there. As initiated Catholics, they will always grow in formation and education in the faith. 

What is "coming into full communion with the Catholic Church"?
This phrase describes the process of entrance into the Catholic Church for Christians who are already baptized. In most cases, these individuals make a profession of faith but are not baptized again. Some studies and preparations may help the Catechumens become best disposed to receive the Sacrament of Baptism. However, their preparation is tailored because they are already committed to Jesus Christ, and many have been active members of other Christian communities. Candidates may be received into the Catholic Church during the Easter Vigil liturgy or at another Sunday during the year.

Becoming a Catholic at St. Joseph Catholic Church
All who may be interested in becoming Catholic are encouraged to meet with one of our clergy for an introductory discussion. All are welcome! For more information, call the parish office, or contact Lance Rivers or Bob Cowart, Leader of OCIA.