Becoming Catholic (OCIA)
Before all else, the Gospel invites us to respond to the God of love who saves us, to see God in others and to go forth from ourselves to seek the good of others.
~ Pope Francis, Joy of the Gospel
What is the OCIA?
The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is a gradual process of conversion and initiation into the Catholic Christian community providing individuals the space to encounter God and respond to His invitation to a new way of life in the Catholic faith. Grounded in a respect for the personal faith journey of each individual, the OCIA provides an extended period of prayer, study, and fellowship in which each individual has the opportunity to grow in relationship with God and the parish community.
Who is the OCIA for?
- Persons who have never been baptized and wish to receive the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist (Holy Communion) in the Catholic Church.
- Persons who were baptized in another Christian denomination and wish to be received into full communion with the Catholic Church by receiving the sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist.
- Baptized Catholics who have not completed their initiation; by receiving the sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist.
How does the OCIA work?
In the OCIA individuals reflect and learn about what is means to be a part of the Catholic Christian community – who we are, what we believe, how we celebrate and pray, how we relate with one another and with God. Based on the gradual transformation of each individual, the OCIA accompanies and celebrates the journey to faith of each individual.
The process begins with a period of inquiry for those who have felt called to consider the Catholic faith. Here you will find an open space to ask questions about what Catholics hold and believe while meeting others striving to live Gospel values. Know that initial inquiry does not necessarily commit you to initiation.
Where can I find out more information?
Every parish in the archdiocese offers this spiritual formation journey for those seeking to become Catholic or further their Catholic faith. If you would like to learn more, please contact your local parish. If you are not sure which parish to contact, please reach out to the Secretariat for Catechesis at [email protected].
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Please contact the Secretariat for Catechesis for more information.