Becoming Catholic
What is the question that will begin your journey?
Every person has a deep desire to know who they are, and where they come from. We all have the desire to know our true identity, but we often find it in the wrong places. At times we feel lost in seeking the truth. Truth is not some philosophy, or ideology, but the person Jesus Christ, “I am the way, the TRUTH, and the life” (Jn 14:6). The O.C.I.A. process helps us to find that truth, in Jesus Christ, so that we can discover our own identity as a person, made in the image and likeness of God (Gen 1:26). This process of seeking out the truth about ourselves, and God, begins with a question.
O.C.I.A. stands for Order of Christian Initiation for Adults. This process of initiation into the Catholic Church originally started with the early Christians. Anyone who is not baptized, or who was baptized in a different Christian faith goes through the O.C.I.A. process to become Catholic. If you are not Catholic but are thinking about becoming Catholic, or if you just want to talk someone who is Catholic, please contact us.
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OCIA: the process.
Period of Inquiry: A time of introduction or re-introduction to the gospel of Jesus Christ and of reflection on one's own life in the light of Gospel values. There is also time set aside for questions and exploration.
Acceptance in the Order of Catechumens Those who profess their faith in Jesus Christ and sincerely desire to enter the church celebrate with the community by publicly accepting the way of Jesus.
Period of the Catechumenate: The catechumens celebrate the liturgy each Sunday, receive an anointing, participate in prayers, and take part in the mission of the church to the world. During these months the catechumens discover the love and power of God in their lives and in the church.
Election or Enrollment of Names: The liturgical rite, usually celebrated on the first Sunday of Lent in the cathedral of the diocese, in which the bishop formally acknowledges the readiness of the catechumens and calls them to the sacraments of initiation.
Period of Purification and Enlightenment: Usually during Lent, preceding the celebration of initiation, this is a time of intense immediate preparation, centered on the word of God and highlighted by the handing on of the Creed, the Lord's Prayer, and the celebration of the scrutinies.
Sacraments of Initiation: The catechumens, now the elect, celebrate initiation in the sacraments of the baptism, confirmation and Eucharist. The waters of baptism give birth to the new person in Christ. Anointing with sacred chrism seals and strengthens the newly baptized Christian and those who hade not previously completed their initiation.
Period of Mystagogy: Mystagogy is the 50-day Easter-time following the celebration of Christian initiation. New members participate fully in the eucharistic life and in the mission of the church for justice and peace. This period reminds everyone that growth in faith is ongoing and lifelong.