Inquiry - The First Phase
In the first phase of the process, candidates bring their questions about Christianity and Catholicism to the meetings which are led by members of the OCIA team. There are no expectations for participation and no obligation to provide the OCIA team with any notice for missing sessions.
The focus of the Inquiry phase is to address concerns and questions you may have and provide a basic understanding of what it means to embrace the Roman Catholic faith. You may decide that the Catholic faith is right for you or may decide not to go further in the process at this time. Inquiry meetings are held weekly on a weekday evening. Check the parish calendar and bulletin for a schedule of meeting times.
Catechumenate - The Second Phase
If you decide to become a member of the Catholic Church, the next step is called the Catechumenate. The transition is marked by an Entrance Rite, celebrated during a weekend liturgy.
The Catechumenate phase is more structured than the Inquiry phase, and you are expected to attend as many of the Catechumenate sessions as possible.
The curriculum for the Catechumenate is based on the Lectionary and on the needs of the members of the Catechumenate. Those in the Catechumenate, called catechumens (unbaptized) or candidates (baptized in another Christian faith tradition), are expected to attend liturgy once each weekend.
Purification and Enlightenment - The Third Phase
This third phase of the OCIA process, Purification and Enlightenment, immediately precedes the celebration of the sacraments of initiation. The focus of this period is on prayer and spiritual reflection. For those preparing for Baptism, this phase takes place during the season of Lent, as catechumens prepare for full initiation at the Easter Vigil. For those who are baptized and seeking full communion with the Catholic Church, the Purification and Enlightenment phase and the initiation sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist is usually celebrated on Holy Saturday but can be celebrated at different times of the year.
Mystagogy - The Fourth Phase
The fourth phase of the OCIA process, Mystagogy, occurs after you become a fully initiated member of the Catholic Church. It is a time to ponder your experience of the sacraments and reflect on how to live as a Catholic Christian.
If you would like more information, contact Larry Manetti.
O.C.I.A
Order of Christian Initiation for Adults
The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is a process designed for adults who, responding to God's grace, desire to become full members of the Catholic Church. Inquirers meet weekly and deepen their relationship with Jesus, as well as learning about Catholicism, and are received into the church at the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday. The OCIA team, with participants, journeys with our enquirers and helps to form them in the faith.