Becoming Catholic

Curious about the Catholic faith? Are you from another faith tradition but feel at home in our Parish Family? Were you baptized Catholic but want to learn more? If any of these describe you, then OCIA might be the perfect place to grow in faith.

What is Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA)?

The Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA) is for any adult who is coming into the Catholic faith either brand new or from another faith tradition. We also welcome those Catholics who would like to further their faith journey in receiving First Communion or Confirmation, as well as those who maybe just want to learn more about the faith.

The OCIA process has four stages:

  • Pre-Catechumenate - a time of asking questions and making inquiry into the Catholic Faith.
  • Catechumenate - a time of spiritual and continued growth and learning.
  • Enlightenment/Purification - a time during Lent spent in preparation to celebrate the Sacraments of Initiation at the Easter Vigil or during the Easter seasons. Reaching this stage can take months or years, depending on the person and their personal faith journey.
  • Mystagogia– a time to reflect on what has happened in one’s faith journey, reach out to others and to connect with the parish and greater Catholic community. This stage can last one’s entire life!

What is the meeting schedule?

Our OCIA team, together with parish team members, meets weekly throughout the year to accompany and prepare adults who are interested in entering the Catholic Church. A new OCIA cycle typically begins in September, with catechumens receiving their Sacraments of Initiation at the Easter Vigil Mass.


Registration information and the meeting schedule will be announced soon. For more information,  reach out to Claire Shea at cshea@parishfamily14.org.