OCIA
Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA)
Adults who are unbaptized or baptized in another Christian tradition are invited to enter into the Order of Christian Initiation for Adults. OCIA leads adults through a process of deepening spirituality and faith formation over the course of about one year. They proceed through a series of liturgical rites and discussion sessions which conclude with the Sacraments of Initiation, Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist. OCIA sessions take place on Sundays beginning with Mass at 8:30am, then a conversation about the readings and a presentation that ends at 11am.
About OCIA
The OCIA at St. Aloysius begins with a period of Adult Faith Inquiry or Pre-catechumenate, during which each individual meets in an informal, relaxed atmosphere with others who are also interested in the faith as well as members of the parish. You are invited to use this time to ask questions, share faith stories, and get better acquainted with others.
When you are ready to take the next step in your journey, you will enter the Catechumenate or Candidacy for Full Communion. The Catechumens and Candidates continue the journey through weekly discussion groups to open the Sunday scriptures and help you deepen your awareness of God’s action in the world and in our own lives. During this time, we will also discuss Catholic doctrine and practices. Catechumens and Candidates are accompanied by members of the parish community who journey with you as Facilitators and Sponsors. They assist, support, and pray with you throughout your journey.
For those who are ready to be called to the Sacraments of Initiation, the Catechumenate and Candidacy conclude during Lent. Lent is a period of deep prayer and preparation for the Easter celebration. At the Easter Vigil, we celebrate the Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist.
Throughout the Order of Christian Initiation for Adults, special liturgical rites call attention to growth and change: the Rite of Entrance and Welcoming, the Rite of Election, and the Scrutinies. These rites are celebrated at Mass so that the entire assembly participates. These rites become an important means for all the faithful to recognize and pray for the continuing faith journey in which we all participate.