Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA)
The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults is designed for adults who, after hearing the mystery of Christ proclaimed, eventually come to a conscious and free decision to enter into full communion with the Catholic Church through the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Eucharist. It is through Baptism that one becomes an adopted child of God, a temple of the Holy Spirit, and a recipient of the promise of eternal life. Confirmation completes the Baptism, strengthening one with the gifts of the Holy Spirit. In the Eucharist, one is nourished by the Body and Blood of Christ.
The OCIA program is intended for:
Those who have never been baptized.
Those baptized into a non-Catholic community, and hence in need of Confirmation and Holy Communion.
A Catholic who was only baptized, but lacking Confirmation and/or First Communion.
The process can be likened to a spiritual journey, which takes place within a community of other seekers, whereby one encounters Christ and becomes more and more conformed to his likeness.
Beginning in September, we will have weekly sixty (60) minute meetings, along with attendance at weekly Mass. The process culminates with the full initiation of the unbaptized (first category above) at the Easter Vigil. The subsequent completion of initiation for the other two categories takes place during the Easter season.
If you or someone you know is interested in OCIA, or if you have more questions about the program, please contact Colleen Brodhead, Director of Faith Formation at cbrodhead@stmichaelcommunity.org or (630) 462-5043
