OCIA

The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is the process by which interested adults and older children are introduced to the beliefs and practices of the Catholic Church.  The Initiation of Catechumens takes place within the community of faith, with catechumens joining with the faithful, and together reflecting on the Paschal Mystery.

For those not yet baptized, the OCIA process leads to the Easter Vigil where the Sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation are received.  For those who have been previously baptized in another Christian tradition, full participation is imparted through the reception of the sacraments of Eucharist and Confirmation.

The full process of OCIA consists of four stages, or periods of formation, marked by the celebrations of three major rites/ceremonies that take place within the parish community. The four stages are: Pre-Catechumenate (or Period of Inquiry), Catechumenate, Purification and Enlightment, and Mystagogia.
 

OCIA Process: The Four Stages

PRE-CATECHUMENATE
During this period, inquirers can receive answers to some of their most pressing questions about the Catholic faith and discern how this faith might connect with their personal story and their desire for a closer relationship with Jesus Christ and the Christian community. Inquirers are invited (but never pressured) to continue the journey through participation in the ritual called the Rite of Acceptance.

CATECHUMENATE
In this second stage of preparation, Catechumens (those preparing for Baptism) and Candidates (those already baptized who are preparing for entry into the Catholic Church), will spend time learning about the beliefs of Catholics and be introduced to the Catholic way of life. The scriptures and Catholic teachings will guide their study, while participation in various forms of worship, prayer and parish activities will acquaint and help integrate them into the Catholic lifestyle. Their priests and catechists will guide them in this journey. A sponsor will be chosen to provide individual support, and the parish community will continue to welcome them and pray for them. This stage culminates in the celebration of the Rite of Election where they are officially accepted for the Easter Sacraments.

PURIFICATION AND ENLIGHTENMENT
This stage, which coincides with the season of Lent, is a time of final preparation for initiation. The “Elect” engage in prayer and reflection about their growing relationship with Christ and the Church. They discern how they will live out that relationship in their everyday lives. Some additional rituals called “Scrutinies” will help them in this process. This period climaxes with their sacramental initiation at the parish Easter Vigil liturgy on the night before Easter.

MYSTAGOGIA
Mystagogia means “leading into the mysteries”. This last period can be compared to a “honeymoon” — a time when the newly initiated are helped to adapt to their new status in the Catholic community. They begin their lifelong pilgrimage of growth as the mysteries of their faith unfold.

Formation