Order of Christian Initiation of Adults

The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is the process through which interested adults are gradually introduced to the Roman Catholic faith and way of life.

The OCIA is a communal process of formation moving toward the Easter Vigil. At this time, the adult becomes a full member of the Roman Catholic Church.

The entire OCIA process usually takes several months and involves transitioning through four stages. Unbaptized adults undertaking this journey of initiation are called "catechumens." They are preparing for the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist. Because the OCIA is such a rich process, it also includes people already baptized in other Christian faiths who want to become Catholic. These adults are called "candidates for full communion."

(OCIA) Team Member

The OCIA Team Member is part of the formation team that journeys with OCIA candidates and catechumens. OCIA brings adults and young people into the Sacramental life of the Church. To be a member of the OCIA team, you will have received all your sacraments, and you are a faithful, joyful, practicing Catholic who is flexible, attentive, and open to learning. You’ll assist the Coordinator of Religious Education in delivering the OCIA program content (teachings, discussions, etc.) weekly from August through May. During this time, you’ll share the encounter of Christ with the program’s candidates and catechumens as they journey through the Inquiry, Catechumenate, Purification, Initiation and Mystagogy phases.