Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA)

The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (or OCIA) is the normative process by which non-Catholic individuals enter into a relationship with Jesus Christ and are welcomed into the life of the Catholic Church. The Process consists of a series of stages of preparation, discernment, and accompanying steps (called “Rites”) that take place over a period ranging from a few months to a few years, depending on the individual’s spiritual journey toward Jesus Christ. Properly engaged, this process leads individuals toward a profound personal relationship with Jesus Christ through spiritual, intellectual, moral, and community formation. The OCIA Process is ideal for anyone who has never been baptized, as well as for those baptized Christians (of other Christian denominations) who seek to enter into full communion with the Catholic Church, but who may need a bit of a practical review on what it means to be a Christian.

OCIA begins in early September and runs through early May, and the process culminates in the reception of the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Eucharist) after a public Profession of Faith, all of which take place during the Easter season.

If you would like more information about OCIA or how to become a Catholic, please contact Clare Fissora at clare.frissora@sjnparish.org or 610-525-3100.