Becoming Catholic (OCIA)

The Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA)

What is OCIA?

The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is the official ritual text of the Church which directs, supports and sustains the way of faith and conversion by which adults (and children who have reached the age of reason) are initiated into the Catholic Church.

OCIA is normative for the Christian initiation of adults and children of catechetical age. The initiation of catechumens is a gradual process that takes place within the community of the faithful.

OCIA typically involves 5 Stages:

Stage 1: Inquiry

This is an opportunity for you to ask questions you’ve wondered about regarding Christianity and the Catholic Church! This part of the process can happen at any time, and for as long as needed.

Stage 2: Catechumenate/Candidacy

The next step is to declare your intention to enter into relationship with the Church, learning Her ways and participating in its lifestyle through the great faith and reason tradition of the Church.

Those who have never been baptized will be invited to celebrate the Rite of Acceptance into the Order of the Catechumenate, which transitions inquirers into the beginning stages of becoming Catholic. You will then be known as a catechumen, which means “one in whom the Word of God echoes.”

Those who have already received baptism in another Christian denomination will be invited to celebrate what is called the Rite of Welcome designed to welcome the baptized members of OCIA into the community and to prepare them for formation. You will then be known as a candidate.

Stage 3: Purification and Enlightenment

This stage begins on the first Sunday of Lent with the Rite of Election and marks the final turning point in your preparation for receiving the Sacraments. At this important rite, all catechumens and candidates are given a new title, Elect, because God has elected, or chosen you to become a child of God through the waters of baptism.

Stage 4: Initiation

At the Easter Vigil, the Elect come into full communion with the Catholic Church through Baptism, First Communion and/or Confirmation.

Stage 5: Mystagogy

Though this ends the Christian Initiation journey, your lifelong Catholic journey is just beginning! For the next 50 days, you will also continue to meet together for ongoing community and prayer. This time is called mystagogy or a “to lead through the mysteries” – really delving into what has taken place in your heart. This is a season that will help you understand the change that has taken place within you and help you integrate your faith into everyday life.

OCIA Schedule 2026/2027