Immaculate Conception Catholic Church welcomes all those interested in becoming Catholic or have questions about Catholic teachings.

What is OCIA?

The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults is the process of introducing Catholic beliefs and practices to adults and children who desire to join the Church or complete their Christian initiation into the Church.

OCIA is for three groups:

1. Those who are not baptized 
2. Those who were baptized into another Christian denomination and wish to enter into full communion with the Catholic Church
3. Baptized Catholics who were never formed in the Catholic faith and have not completed their initiation; that is, who have not received First Communion or Confirmation

Any adult, 18 years of age and older, who is either unbaptized or a baptized Christian of another denomination, is invited to participate in OCIA. Children ages 8 and above are also invited to participate in a modified, age-appropriate version of the OCIA process.
 

What are the steps in the OCIA process?

1.  Inquiry: The process begins with a period known as Inquiry. This involves some time of instruction, during which interested individuals can learn the core beliefs of the Catholic Church, the Sacraments and Rituals, and basic Church history. Inquirers are encouraged to ask many questions of the OCIA team members. After this initial period, inquirers may seek to become a Catechumen in the Rite of Acceptance, publically stating their intention to become a baptized member of the Catholic Church.
2.  Catechumenate: This is an extended period in which Catechumens begin to enter the Church community while continuing to learn about the Church and the Sacraments profoundly. This period allows participants the opportunity to examine their commitment and deepen their relationship with God – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Once a participant is ready to make a commitment of faith to Jesus in the Catholic Church, they may formally request Baptism and/or Confirmation to enter into the Church.
3.  Purification and Enlightenment: Those who have formally requested entrance into the Catholic Church are invited to an introspective period involving prayer and reflection. This normally takes place during Lent and leads up to the celebration of the Sacraments of Baptism, the Eucharist, and Confirmation at the Easter Vigil.
4.  Mystagogy: As newly initiated Catholics, participants continue their faith formation and education in a period of reflection and prayer. This allows participants to reflect on their experiences at the Easter Vigil and continue to learn more about their Church and their role in it. This period gives newly baptized and/or confirmed Catholics a chance to join or participate in different ministries in the Church and become acquainted with parish life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I’m married civilly, divorced, or divorced and remarried?
If you were married in a civil ceremony or if you are divorced and remarried, your circumstances should be addressed before beginning OCIA. Please schedule a visit with Fr. Juan Carlos to address them. 

What documents are required to become Catholic? 
Baptized Christians will need only a copy of their baptismal record.

What if I have young children who need Baptism or First Communion?
Youths between 8 and 13 years old may attend OCIA that has been adapted to their circumstances. Parents are encouraged to join them on a separate night. Children under the age of 8 may participate in our Religious Education programs.