The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (O.C.I.A.) is a journey of conversion for those who wish to become Catholic, those interested in learning more about the Catholic faith, and those who are currently Catholic and seek an increased understanding of deepening their faith. All of this process concludes in the reception and/or completion of the Sacraments of Initiation, i.e., Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist.
The entire community is active in the process because it is the faith of the community that is handed on. The community shares the likenesses and differences, the strengths and weaknesses, the joys and sorrows, and the richness of the Risen Lord. The length of this journey varies with the individual and ultimately culminates in the celebration at the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday with the Sacraments of Initiation.
OCIA is an official rite of the Catholic Church. It is one of the processes that emerged from Vatican II. It has been in English for many years and is published by the United States Catholic Conference of Bishops.
The O.C.I.A. is rooted in scripture and the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church. The time allotted for this process is based on each individual’s personal journey.
The process is for adults
- who have never been baptized
- are baptized Christians wishing to enter into full communion with the Catholic Church
- are Catholics who have not been fully catechized nor fully initiated in the Sacraments of the Church
There is always a need for parishioners to help out in the O.C.I.A. by
- becoming a Sponsor for someone in the O.C.I.A. process
- becoming a Catechist
- encouraging others who are interested in becoming Catholic to call the Parish Office about the O.C.I.A.
OCIA is also for children who have not been baptized or have been baptized in another religion. The child/children should be between the ages of 7 through 17 and must attend the Faith Formation program. The journey is the same for the child as the adults.
Contact (219) 464-1624 ext. 231 or email ocia@seseton.com