What is the OCIA (formerly RCIA)?
The OCIA stands for the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults. The OCIA is comprised of a series of rites and rituals designed for adults who, upon hearing the proclamation of the mystery of Christ as the Holy Spirit opens their hearts, consciously and freely seek the living God and undertake the journey of faith and conversion (OCIA manual Paragraph #1).
Why the OCIA?
The OCIA is often described as the process for “becoming Catholic” or “getting sacraments,” and this is true at one level. However, becoming Catholic and receiving sacraments is really about entering a relationship with Jesus Christ and/or deepening your relationship with Christ and in his church, which is often described in the Bible as Christ’s bride and body (Ephesians 4:15-16; 5:25-27 and 1 Corinthians 12:1-31). We believe that the sacraments of baptism and confirmation unite a person to Jesus and his body, such that all Christians are “one in Christ” (Galatians 3:26-28) and that the reception of the Eucharist/Holy Communion, “the one bread” and body of Christ, makes us all part of Christ’s body (1 Corinthians 10:16-17). This means that “becoming Catholic” or “getting sacraments” requires having a relationship with Jesus Christ in and through those who are a part of his body, the church. Thus, the choice to become Catholic is not just a personal decision, but a joint decision between you and Christ’s body. This is reflected in the OCIA rites and the reception of sacraments, both of which place an emphasis on a person’s choice to follow Jesus and the church’s—as the body of Christ—discernment and acceptance of that person’s journey of faith and desire to become part of, and a partaker, of Jesus’s body. The formation of any relationship requires time and engagement, and this is what the OCIA process seeks to provide.
Who is the OCIA for?
The OCIA is for anyone who is seeking to know more about Jesus Christ and the Christian faith, including Catholics who want to come back to the church or continue to grow in their faith. It is also for anyone who is a Christian who has been baptized in another Christian faith tradition and who seeks full communion with the Catholic Church. If you were baptized Catholic and were never confirmed or never had 1st communion, it is for you too!
How long does it take?
The journey is different for everyone, and so it takes as long as you need. For most Christians (those who are already baptized), the journey into the Catholic Church can happen within months. For those new to the Christian faith, the journey can take a little longer as they come to know Jesus and prepare to accept the grace of baptism into his Church and the commitment that implies.
What does the OCIA entail?
The OCIA process involves four major stages. The transition between each stage is marked by an initiation rite, in which you will be required to appear before the church to express your intention to follow Jesus and become part of his church, and by which the body of Christ will acknowledge your intentions, encourage you, and pray for you.
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The period of inquiry involves meeting with the Director of Faith Formation or an OCIA shepherd as you ask questions, come to understand what the journey will look like, and ensure that you fully desire to make that journey. This stage ends with the Rite of Welcoming or the Rite of Entrance into the Catechumenate.
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The period of the catechumen (a fancy word for those new to the Christian faith who are preparing for baptism) or candidates (baptized Christians preparing for confirmation) involves the following:
You will have things to do to help you get to know the people of Holy Apostles Catholic Church and begin to become a part of our Church community.
You can begin serving Jesus in and through his Church community.
You will be a part of some rites along the way that help prepare you for each part of your journey and that mark your progress.
You will watch some videos and study other resources to help you learn more about Jesus and his Church.
You will attend monthly meetings to study scripture, pray, and discuss things you are learning.
You will participate in a few special sessions and retreats along the way to help you focus on important special concerns, like the mystery of Jesus and the relationship he seeks with you, prayer, and, reconciliation with God.
This stage ends with the Rite of Election (unbaptized) or Rite of Call for Continuing Conversion (baptized).
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A Period of Enlightenment and Purification usually coincides with Lent (40 days before Easter). This is a time of more intense spiritual preparation through interior reflection and penance. It is also a time that focuses on enlightening the mind and heart with a deeper knowledge of Jesus Christ our Savior. This period ends sacraments of initiation.
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The period of Mystagogy is when those newly baptized and confirmed reflect on those sacramental experiences and all they mean for their place in the Church and the world. It is a time of continuing Christian formation and getting incorporated into the life of the Christian community.
When can I start?
Any time. When you sense that God may be speaking to you about taking this step, you are ready (as are we)!
Who do I talk to get started?
Visit your parish office and ask for your OCIA, Faith Formation, or Religious Education Director. You are also welcome to ask to talk to your local priest or deacons. If you have any questions or want to get started, contact Lance Pikaart at 719-484-8732 or lpikaart@holyapostlescc.org
OCIA for Children/Families
Christian Initiation for Children/Youth (also called Family OCIA) is a process that follows the Initiation of Adults, but is adapted for children and youth who are at least 7 to 17 years old. If you have questions about OCIA for families, please contact Peggy Armstrong at 719-484-8726 or parmstrong@holyapostlescc.org
More Resources
The Catechism of the Catholic Church is a comprehensive resource that explains the teachings of the Catholic Church.
The Coming Home Network is a network of support established by converts and reverts for others who are or may be on the journey to the Catholic Church.
Word on Fire Catholic Ministries exists to draw people into the body of Christ, which is the Church, and thereby give them access to all the gifts that Jesus wants his people to enjoy.