The Order of Christian Initiation for Adults
(OCIA)
Becoming Catholic: Christian Initiation for Adults
The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults is the process for adults needing the sacraments of initiation (Baptism, Communion, and Confirmation).
The OCIA is the modern form of the "catechumenate" (Greek for “instruction”) of the early days of the Church. Becoming Christian in the early centuries involved a sharp break with the surrounding culture. New Christians entered into a way of living which demanded deep commitment and often risk to their lives. In the modern world, our faith also demands deep commitment as our beliefs often conflict with those of our society. New believers need thorough preparation as well as caring support as they enter into a relationship with Jesus, the mysteries of His Church and the commitment of Christian living.
The OCIA is the modern form of the "catechumenate" (Greek for “instruction”) of the early days of the Church. Becoming Christian in the early centuries involved a sharp break with the surrounding culture. New Christians entered into a way of living which demanded deep commitment and often risk to their lives. In the modern world, our faith also demands deep commitment as our beliefs often conflict with those of our society. New believers need thorough preparation as well as caring support as they enter into a relationship with Jesus, the mysteries of His Church and the commitment of Christian living.
How Does the OCIA Work?
To get started in the Order , you will first meet to discuss your current status and to help you get registered. An Intake Form is completed, that includes personal and confidential information on your present and past status. There is no fee to start in the OCIA; but you will need to acquire all the materials you need (e.g., Bible, Catechism of the Catholic Church, a binder). You will then attend and participate in the group discussions in all the weekly meetings.
To begin the OCIA process, email [email protected] or call 209-661-8803.
Step One: Inquiry
First meet with the OCIA Director who will help you get started (see above). When you begin the process there is no obligation on your part. This period is called “inquiry” where foundational truths of the faith are taught, questions answered, and Inquirers receive the good news of Jesus Christ’s gospel and open the way for spiritual growth.
Step Two: Catechumenate
After the Inquiry period, Inquirers will meet with the OCIA Director again for discernment about continuing to become Catholic. If so, Inquirers participate in the Rite of Entrance (or the Rite of Welcoming for those validly baptized outside the Catholic Church). This period, known as the Catechumenate, prepares the Catechumens for entering into a deeper relationship with God and the Church through deeper teaching and preparation.
Step 3: Purification & Enlightenment
A final, intense, period typically begins with the Lenten season. Catechumens participate in the Rite of Election which formally changes their status to Elect. During Lent, the Elect undergo several rites all designed to prepare them for receiving the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Communion, and Confirmation) at the Easter Vigil!
Step 4 – Mystagogy
After reception of the sacraments of initiation, Neophytes go through this final period of catechesis called Mystagogy. Now, it’s time for them to start their Catholic life in the community going to parish events, attending Holy Hour, attending the daily and Sunday masses, sharing the Eucharist, doing works of charity, etc. This is also a good time for the Neophytes to discern and decide how they can share their gifts and talents to be good stewards to the parish.
First meet with the OCIA Director who will help you get started (see above). When you begin the process there is no obligation on your part. This period is called “inquiry” where foundational truths of the faith are taught, questions answered, and Inquirers receive the good news of Jesus Christ’s gospel and open the way for spiritual growth.
Step Two: Catechumenate
After the Inquiry period, Inquirers will meet with the OCIA Director again for discernment about continuing to become Catholic. If so, Inquirers participate in the Rite of Entrance (or the Rite of Welcoming for those validly baptized outside the Catholic Church). This period, known as the Catechumenate, prepares the Catechumens for entering into a deeper relationship with God and the Church through deeper teaching and preparation.
Step 3: Purification & Enlightenment
A final, intense, period typically begins with the Lenten season. Catechumens participate in the Rite of Election which formally changes their status to Elect. During Lent, the Elect undergo several rites all designed to prepare them for receiving the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Communion, and Confirmation) at the Easter Vigil!
Step 4 – Mystagogy
After reception of the sacraments of initiation, Neophytes go through this final period of catechesis called Mystagogy. Now, it’s time for them to start their Catholic life in the community going to parish events, attending Holy Hour, attending the daily and Sunday masses, sharing the Eucharist, doing works of charity, etc. This is also a good time for the Neophytes to discern and decide how they can share their gifts and talents to be good stewards to the parish.
