OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults)
The sacraments of Christian initiation — Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist — lay the foundations of every Christian life. “The sharing in the divine nature given to men and women through the grace of Christ bears a certain likeness to the origin, development, and nourishing of natural life. The faithful are born anew by Baptism, strengthened by the sacrament of Confirmation, and receive in the Eucharist the food of eternal life. By means of these sacraments of Christian initiation, they thus receive in increasing measure the treasures of the divine life and advance toward the perfection of charity.” (CCC, 1212)
- The Second Vatican Council restored the order of the Catechumenate in the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA). It outlines the steps for the formation of catechumens, bringing their conversion to the faith to a greater maturity.
- It helps them respond more deeply to God's gracious initiative in their lives and prepares them for union with the Church community. This process is meant to form them into the fullness of the Christian life and to become disciples of Jesus, their teacher. This includes an initiation into the mystery of salvation, the practice of faith, hope, and love, and other virtues in a succession of liturgical rites. The OCIA Candidates are brought into the Church during the Easter Vigil.
I want to become a Catholic
Are you an unbaptized adult, seeking full communion with Jesus in the Catholic Church? Or are you already a baptized Christian, ready to officially join the Catholic Church? We invite you to join our preparation program called "Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults" or "OCIA."
Preparation to become Catholic takes about six months, and runs from September through Easter Sunday. OCIA is designed to prepare you to receive the sacraments of initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist) and to live out your life as a Christian and a member of the Church.
Please contact the parish office if you are interested or have questions.
I want my children to become Catholic
We welcome your family! We offer individualized preparation for children between the ages of 8 and 14, and who have completed 2nd grade, whether baptized or unbaptized. Children prepare to receive the Sacraments of Baptism and Eucharist.
Reception of the Sacraments is not to be seen as an end or a graduation, but rather the gateway to a lifelong commitment to spiritual growth and the love of God and neighbor.
Ready to become Catholic? Contact: Michael Zosel: 360) 228-7004 / michael@stgabepop.org