Becoming Catholic - order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA)
Questions? Please contact Mary Brouillard (507) 269-6361 [email protected] Becoming a Catholic – A Journey in Faith Are you a Seeker (Inquirer) desiring to know about our faith and possibly join the Catholic Church?
We welcome you! The St. Bernard and St. Bridget communities invites you to join us with your questions as we explore the Catholic faith through the RCIA process.
What does O.C.I.A. mean?
OCIA stands for the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults
At St. Bernard’s and St. Bridget's the OCIA process is a guided journey to prepare for sacramental initiation and entry into the Catholic Church. The journey is also one of individualized prayer, reflection and learning that allows for the continual discernment of God’s plan in our lives.
Candidates, those already baptized, and catechumens, those who have not been baptized, both participate in this learning, loving process of conversion.
Sponsors, the OCIA team, and the entire parish community are involved in walking with and supporting the OCIA candidates along their faith journey. Through the OCIA process everyone is renewed in their faith.
What Topics are covered?
Formation includes several areas:
· Scripture: the stories of God’s people · Teaching: what Catholics believe · Prayer: how we communicate with God · Liturgy: how the community worships together · Mission: how we live out what we believe
Who Belongs in OCIA?
This process is for anyone who:
· Desires to know more about the Catholic Church · Is unbaptized and wants to become a Catholic Christian through the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist · Is a baptized Christian (in another faith tradition or Catholic) who desires full sacramental membership in the Catholic Church through Confirmation and Eucharist · Attends the Catholic Church and is questioning if the Catholic Church is for you · Was baptized Catholic but left or has had little or no contact with the Church · Was baptized Catholic but has never celebrated Confirmation or Eucharist
Who is involved in the process?
The whole parish is actually involved in the OCIA process. Besides those seeking initiation into the Church, there are parish sponsors, godparents, and a team of parishioners who walk the spiritual journey with the candidates.
Throughout the process there are special rites that are celebrated within the Sunday liturgies. At the Sunday liturgies the parish assembly welcomes and supports the candidates in prayer.
Who are the sponsors?
Sponsors are persons from the parish or other Catholic communities who serve as companions, mentors and guides throughout the process. Sponsors do not need to be “answer people” who are experts in the knowledge about their faith. Sponsors receive information and support for their ministry. Sponsors desire to grow in their faith and deepen their relationship with God.
How long does it take to become a full member of the Catholic Church?
It depends on the person. We respect the journey of each person and allow for discernment along the way. Commitment to membership is made in stages and a final commitment is not made until a determined time during the liturgical year. Generally, unbaptized persons are received into the Church at the Easter Vigil.
What if I am not sure. Am I committed to becoming a Catholic from the start?
No. OCIA is a journey. The OCIA team members, parish sponsors, and pastor are available to help the interested adult discern if this is the best path for them at this time.