Adult Faith Formation
Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA)
The Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA) is a year-long process of prayer, learning, and reflection designed for those seeking to become Catholic, those seeking the sacrament of Confirmation, and those simply exploring the Catholic faith. It is open to all adults ages 18+. Participants in OCIA are known as catechumens. They undergo a process of conversion as they study the Gospel, profess faith in Jesus and the Catholic Church, and receive the sacraments of baptism, confirmation, and Holy Eucharist. 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. In 1974, the Order of Christian Initiation for Adults was formally approved for use in the United States.
