RCIA / OCIA for Adults
(Order of Christian Initiation for Adults)
Journey of faith for adults seeking Baptism, Confirmation, or full initiation into the Catholic Church.
What is RCIA / OCIA?
RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults), now also known as OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults), is the process through which adults are welcomed into full communion with the Catholic Church.
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This journey is designed for adults who:
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Have never been baptized
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Were baptized in another Christian tradition
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Were baptized Catholic but did not complete their sacraments of initiation
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Through prayer, catechesis, and participation in parish life, candidates grow in faith and prepare to receive the sacraments.
Who Can Participate?
RCIA / OCIA is for adults who:
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Have not been baptized
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Were baptized but never received First Holy Communion or Confirmation
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Are seeking to learn more about the Catholic faith
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Feel called to deepen their relationship with Christ and the Church
What to Expect
Participants can expect:
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Weekly formation sessions focused on Scripture, doctrine, and prayer
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Participation in the liturgical life of the parish
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Guidance from catechists, sponsors, and clergy
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A gradual and supportive journey of faith and discernment
RCIA / OCIA is not a class to “pass,” but a process of conversion and growth.
The Process of Initiation
The RCIA / OCIA process includes several stages:
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Inquiry (learning and asking questions)
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Catechumenate (formation in faith)
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Purification and Enlightenment (preparation during Lent)
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Celebration of the Sacraments (usually at the Easter Vigil)
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Mystagogy (continuing growth after initiation)
Each person’s journey is respected and proceeds at an appropriate pace.
Requirements
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Commitment to attend formation sessions regularly
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Participation in Sunday Mass
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Willingness to grow in faith and prayer
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Openness to discernment and Church teaching
Sponsors / Godparents
The godparents accompany the person who is going to be baptized or confirmed in their growth in faith and must meet the following requirements:
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Must be at least 16 years old.
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Must be a Catholic who has the sacraments of initiation (baptism, first communion, and confirmation) and attends Mass regularly and practices the faith.
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Cannot be the parent of the child being baptized.
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Can be a single godparent (male or female) — or one of each.
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If married, the godparent must be married in the Catholic Church (or have their marriage convalidated).
Registration
If you are interested in beginning the RCIA / OCIA process, please contact the parish office or complete the registration form. Usually the preparation time in our parish begin on September.
“Faith is a gift of God, but you must ask for it.”
— St. Augustine