BECOMING CATHOLIC (OCIA)

Becoming a part of the Catholic Church starts with deepening your understanding of the faith through Catholic Formation classes, often done through the Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA). 

The formation of adults and the process for initiation into the Catholic Church is called the “Order of Christian Initiation of Adults" or simply OCIA. This program provides the groundwork for basic faith development.

Together with others, you will gather for classes, prayer, Mass, and discussion with members of the Church who have been specially trained for this ministry. The program is centered around the liturgical calendar of the Church and it will help you enter into the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ which is central to our Faith. While each parish's programs may differ in function and format, they all follow the same process. The OCIA process has several stages, each tailored to foster your relationship with Jesus and learn more about His Church. 

What is OCIA (formerly, RCIA)?

The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is the process established for the universal Church for individuals to become Catholic and receive the sacraments of initiation — Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist. This initiation process also involves a parish community experiencing a renewal in faith as it prepares and welcomes new members into the Church. The Rite speaks of conversion as a “spiritual journey.” Centered on fostering a deep relationship with Jesus and the Church he founded, this journey takes place through distinct stages over a period of time suitable to bring about a thorough catechesis, significant experience of the parish community, and commitment to the liturgical and moral life of the Catholic faithful. The OCIA process is a restoration of the ancient catechumenate, arising within the first three centuries following the era of the apostles. It was the early Church’s way of Christianizing the pagan Roman Empire. The Second Vatican Council called for the restoration and use of this venerable and powerful method of initiation for the worldwide Church.

Who is OCIA for?

1. Persons in need of Baptism.
2. Persons baptized in another Christian tradition who desire to become Catholic.

3. Persons baptized Catholic in need of First Communion and/or Confirmation.

How long is the OCIA process?

The time varies for each individual depending on both knowledge and practice that leads to conversion. The OCIA text gives guides for discerning each individual's readiness on a case-by-case basis
.OCIA is a process, not a program, meaning there are no set times to begin or "end". St. Martin's offers a year-round process, meaning that individuals may begin the process at any time, and will be guided in preparation by their sponsor, OCIA team, OCIA director, and the Pastor
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 What is the process?The Order of Christian Initiation (OCIA) is a gradual process by which an interested person becomes a member of the Catholic Church. OCIA, marks the various steps on the way to full commitment within the Catholic Church in five specific periods. It is important to keep in mind that OCIA is a process, not a program. The actual time required is determined more by the development of each person and their discernment with the assistance of the Director and Pastor.

Periods of the OCIA Process:

Period of Inquiry/Evangelization: This is a time, of no fixed duration or structure, for inquiry and introduction to Gospel values, an opportunity for the beginnings of Faith.  St. Martin's offers a year-long inquiry process so that interested parties may inquire at any time throughout the year. Please contact Deacon Andy Thomas for more information.
 
The Period of Catechumenate: Following the Rite of Acceptance and Welcoming the “Catechumen” instruction deepens individual conversion and provides for more in-depth focus on the doctrines of the Catholic faith.

The Period of Purification and Enlightenment: The Rite of Election marks a period of more intense spiritual preparation intended to purify the mind and heart of the “Elect” and to deepen their knowledge of and relationship to Christ. Typically this period coincides with Lent, but as the RCIA process is year-round, this can happen whenever a catechumen is ready. 
 
The Sacraments of Initiation: The “Elect” are fully initiated into the Church through the reception of the sacraments of Baptism, First Eucharist, and Confirmation, traditionally celebrated at the Easter Vigil liturgy. With the year-round model, reception into the Church can also happen at another Sunday throughout the year.
 
The Period of Mystagogy: After the completion of their Christian initiation the “Neophyte” (new Catholic) enters a period of deepening of their understanding of their new faith. Their focus during this six-week period is development of their personal spiritual life and introduction into full involvement in the Mission of the Church through ministries and outreach.