Are you seeking a deeper connection with your faith? The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) might be the perfect journey for you. Previously known as RCIA, the OCIA program is designed to guide adults in their spiritual path, whether you're exploring Catholicism for the first time or looking to complete your sacraments.
What is OCIA?
The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is a process developed by the Catholic Church for prospective converts to Catholicism who are above the age of infant baptism. It is a journey of faith that includes several stages marked by study, prayer, and rites at Mass. Participants undergo a process of conversion as they study the Gospel, profess faith in Jesus and the Catholic Church, and receive the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Eucharist. This program is also a means for baptized Christians who have not completed their sacramental initiation or for those who have been away from the Church to deepen their faith and practice.
Why and When the Name Changed from RCIA to OCIA
The American Catholic Bishops made the decision to change the name from the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) to the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) to more accurately reflect the nature and purpose of the process. This change was implemented to align with the original Latin text, "Ordo Initiationis Christianae Adultorum," emphasizing that it is an ordered process of stages and steps leading to full inOOitiation into the Catholic Church. The change also highlights that this journey is not just a series of rites, but a comprehensive process that includes catechesis, spiritual formation, and rites of initiation. This shift underscores the holistic nature of the initiation process, which involves learning, faith development, and community integration. The transition to OCIA began to be implemented in the early 2020s, with dioceses and parishes across the United States gradually adopting the new terminology. This change aims to provide a clearer understanding of the process for both participants and the broader Catholic community. Who is OCIA for?
Individuals who may have been baptized in a Christian church but who have not received Communion, Reconciliation, or Confirmation.
People who received no sacraments
People who were baptized in the Catholic Church but never received other sacraments
Those who have been away from the Lord and now wish to return and complete their sacraments as adults.
Anyone interested
Program Overview:
Orientation: August 6th at 6:30 pm in the Parish Library. This session will provide an overview of the program and what to expect.
Official Start: Tuesday, September 10th at 6:30 pm in the Parish Library. This marks the beginning of our journey together, filled with learning, faith-sharing, and community.
The OCIA program is run by Sharon Vessels, with the support of Dan Rhodes and Marci Sauer. Together, they bring a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to nurturing your faith journey. We invite you to direct any inquiries, thoughts, or reflections you may have to Sharon and the group at o[email protected]. Perhaps you have questions about the beliefs and practices of the Catholic Church, or you might simply want to share your spiritual journey thus far. Maybe you're curious about the essence of RCIA and what it entails. Regardless of your unique situation or where you are in your spiritual journey, we are eager to engage in conversation, offer our insights, and provide the compassionate support that you need.