Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is the process by which non-Catholics enter the Catholic Faith.  To become a Catholic, one must understand the teachings of the Church, believe in those teachings, and be a baptized Catholic.  If someone is not baptized, through OCIA they will learn the tenants of the Catholic Faith and conclude their journey with the reception of the Sacrament of Baptism, Holy Eucharist, and Confirmation into the Church.  

If someone was baptized as a Protestant, they will study the teachings of the Catholic Faith in OCIA and conclude their journey with their entrance into the Church through the Sacraments of Initiation by a priest.  OCIA requires not only academic preparation but also a commitment to the Church's teachings.

OCIA classes typically begin at parishes each year in autumn and conclude after Pentecost, with Baptisms taking place at the Easter Vigil Mass on the night of Holy Saturday.

Interested in becoming Catholic or in completing your Sacraments of Initiation?