What Is OCIA?
The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults or “OCIA” is a gradual faith journey and conversion to Christ by which adults, interested in learning about the Catholic Faith, meet once a week. Participants explore and reflect on Scripture, teachings of the Roman Catholic Church, formation, ritualization, discussion, prayer and participation in the Church’s Liturgical Life. They discover and reflect on where and how God is present in their life. Participants through the process of ongoing discernment are then able to make a lasting commitment to the Catholic Church through the reception of the sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation.
 

Who Is OCIA For?

• Persons who have never been baptized and wish to receive the sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist (Holy Communion) and

• Confirmation in the Catholic Church.

• Persons who were baptized in another Christian denomination and wish to be received into full communion with the

• Catholic Church by receiving the sacraments of Eucharist and Confirmation.

• Baptized Catholics who have not completed their initiation; by receiving the sacraments of Eucharist and Confirmation.

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The following are required:

• A Certified Birth Certificate for those seeking Baptism

• A current dated Baptismal Certificate for those seeking additional Sacraments

• Those to be Baptized or Confirmed, will need a sponsor who has been Confirmed in the Catholic Church and is in

• Communion with and practicing the Catholic faith. Sponsors will need a copy of their Confirmation or Marriage Certificate.

• Completion of registration forms and payment of fees

 

Summary of OCIA Preparation

There are four periods marked with rites that fortify the spiritual growth of the Catechumens (unbaptized) and Candidates (baptized) as they prepare for full membership in the Church.  These are celebrated within a Sunday Mass either at the parish or diocese. 

• Pre-Catechumenate -This is the earliest phase in the process; it is also known as the Period of Inquiry. Catechumens and Candidates acknowledge that Christ is calling them into the Church through the movement of the Holy Spirit. This is a time to seek and reflect.

• Rite of Initiation -The first Rite in the RCIA process, the Rite of Initiation accepts new members into the worshipping community.

• Catechumenate -The longest part of the process, the Catechumenate is a time of learning and formation in the traditions and doctrine of the Catholic Church. This is a time for sharing stories, reading scripture, and studying the Church customs, traditions and doctrine. Participants also participate in worship services and various Church rituals.

• Rite of Election -Catechumens and Candidates are chosen to be received by the bishop and the community and to receive the Sacraments of Initiation at Easter.

• Sacraments of Initiation-At the Easter Vigil (Holy Saturday), all newly elected members of the community are welcomed formally into the community of believers through receiving the Sacraments of Initiation – Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation.

• Mystagogy -This is a time of reflection and celebration after the formal reception into the Catholic Church. Mystagogia is a time to explore the deep mystery of our faith and go forth to help build the Kingdom of God on Earth.

 

The St. Ambrose community is ready and open to walk with you as you discern how God might be calling you into a deeper
relationship. Please contact the Parish Office at 520-622-6749 for further information.