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lay formation
Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA)
The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is designed for adults who, after hearing the mystery of Christ proclaimed, consciously and freely seek the living God and enter the way of faith and conversion as the Holy Spirit opens their hearts. By God’s help they will be strengthened spiritually during their preparation and at the proper time will receive the Sacraments of Initiation (Introduction to the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults, 1).
According to the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), "The OCIA process follows the ancient practice of the church and was restored by the Second Vatican Council as the normal way adults prepare for baptism."
Catechumens are people who have not been baptized and are seeking to enter the Catholic Church through all of the Sacraments of Initiation – Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation. Candidates are people who have already been baptized in a Christian tradition recognized by the Catholic Church, but are seeking full initiation into the Catholic Church through the sacraments of Eucharist and Confirmation.
For more information or to learn more about the Catholic faith, you may wish to visit the websites below by clicking on the images or, call a nearby parish and ask to speak with the pastor or the person who coordinates the OCIA program.
Office of OCIA Staff: |
