Spouse or fiancée Catholic?
Baptized a Catholic but never were formed in faith or received First Eucharist or Confirmation?
If you are seeking to find a faith you can embrace fully as your own, then we welcome you to explore with us what it means to be Catholic.
THE OCIA PROCESS:
Persons who are seekers of faith are invited to enter a wonderful process with a big name: The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults or OCIA. You can begin this journey at anytime, formally entering the church when you are ready, usually at Easter. Each individual's own unique journey is respected and no one is every pressured to enter the Catholic Church.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
Many experience a journey similar to this:
Initial exploration. We gather on Monday evenings from September to May for a thorough, adult presentation of the Catholic faith. We cover Church teaching, Scripture and the Sacraments. The format is presentation and small group discussion with plenty of time to ask questions. Eventually, if you feel called, you will make a more formal statement of your intent to receive the Sacraments.
The Catechumenate. When you feel ready, we will joyfully receive you into the Order of Catechumens - formal seekers of the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist). You will gather with the community at the Sunday Mass, experiencing how we worship. Each Sunday you will be sent forth from the assembly to "break open" the Word, reflecting with others on the Scripture you have just heard. Finally when you feel ready you will be received as candidates for reception of the Sacraments.
The Elect. This will be your Easter to receive the Sacraments of Initiation! On the First Sunday of Lent, we will gather with the Archbishop at Blessed Sacrament Cathedral where he will call you to the Easter sacraments. This will be a period of intense preparation, special liturgies, a retreat and communal prayer. On the Saturday evening before Easter (at the Easter Vigil) you will receive the Sacraments - Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist - in the midst of the rejoicing church!
Reflection on the Mystery. You are now a Catholic - but you also need some time to reflect on your journey so far. You will join with others who have shared your experience (called neophytes) for prayer and fellowship. This part of your faith journey concludes, but another is just beginning - the journey of your life in the church, involved, faithful and prayerful!
Everyone's journey is unique - your steps in the process and timetable may vary, depending on your faith experience. We will discuss this when we meet the first time. I am looking forward to hearing your story!
Deacon Jim Ward
Director of Adult Faith Formation
734-981-1333, x113
[email protected]