The Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA)  is a faith formation process designed to introduce adults to Jesus, his teachings, and his Church. This process includes persons at differing levels of faith formation, which includes persons never baptized, persons baptized in another ecclesial Christian faith, and baptized Catholics.

The parish also has an OCIA process adapted for children at the age of reason (seven years or older) who have never been baptized.

Formation Sessions

The formation sessions include two essential elements. Of most importance is the weekly reflection on the Sunday Mass readings, and their revelation of Jesus, His life, His message, and His mission.

Secondly, the teachings of the Church are presented in an orderly sequence to enable participants to be fully exposed to the Church that they are searching to embrace. There is an emphasis on the Liturgy of the Mass as central to the life of Catholics, on the sacraments as entries into God's holy family, and on prayer as the source of life, faith, guidance, and comfort.

Sessions occur within the community as each member of the community has a contribution to offer toward the process of growing in faith. The OCIA group forms a microcosm of the Church with a dynamic combination of inquirers into the faith along with full and active Catholics in the parish, all meeting together weekly.

Personal Journey

The process for each is a personal journey of faith. The length of their formation is always open-ended. Discernment of one's readiness for full membership in the Church includes the depth of their faith background and the intensity of their presence in the session contents. The process includes self-observation and community observation of one's growth in worship, community, prayer, and service. These markers contribute to the spiritual formation of a person, which formation binds one to the Body of Christ, the Church, with a life-long commitment.
 

Contact Information

We offer OCIA year-round. Inquirers may join the process at any time during the year. If you have questions, contact the office at 505.839.7952.