Welcome to the Journey
Are you curious about the Catholic faith? Have you been thinking about becoming Catholic, completing your Sacraments, or simply learning more about what Catholics believe?
The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is the process through which adults learn about the Catholic faith and discern God's call in their lives. OCIA is not simply a class. It is a journey of prayer, learning, discussion, and growing in a relationship with Jesus Christ and His Church.
Whether you are:
- Not baptized and interested in Christianity
- Baptized in another Christian tradition and considering becoming Catholic
- Baptized Catholic but have not received First Communion and/or Confirmation
- Returning to the practice of your Catholic faith
You are welcome.
REGISTRATION:
OCIA Interest Form - Click HERE
If you have any questions, please contact Yissel Carroll, Director of Religious Education, at (865) 482-2875.
What is OCIA?
OCIA stands for the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults. It is the process the Catholic Church uses to welcome and prepare adults who are seeking full communion with the Church.
Through OCIA, participants:
- Learn about Catholic beliefs and teachings
- Develop a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ
- Experience the life of the parish community
- Participate in prayer and worship
- Discern God's call through the guidance of the Holy Spirit
There is no obligation to become Catholic simply because you attend OCIA sessions. The process allows time for questions, prayer, and discernment.
The OCIA Journey
Inquiry Period
The journey often begins with a time of asking questions and learning about the Catholic faith. Individuals considering the process are known as Inquirers.
This is an opportunity to explore:
- Who Jesus Christ is
- What Catholics believe
- The teachings of the Church
- How faith can impact daily life
Catechumenate
Those who are not baptized and choose to continue are formally welcomed as Catechumens.
Those already baptized in another Christian tradition are known as Candidates.
During this period, participants receive formation in:
- Sacred Scripture
- Catholic doctrine
- Prayer and spirituality
- Christian living
- Participation in parish life
Purification and Enlightenment
As participants approach reception into the Church, they enter a period of deeper prayer, reflection, and spiritual preparation, particularly during Lent.
Sacraments of Initiation
At the Easter Vigil, Catechumens typically receive the Sacraments of:
- Baptism
- Confirmation
- Holy Eucharist
Candidates who have already been baptized are received into full communion with the Catholic Church and receive the Sacraments they have not yet celebrated.
Mystagogy
Following Easter, newly initiated Catholics continue to deepen their understanding of the faith through ongoing formation and active participation in parish life.
Additional Information & Resources
COMING SOON...
Yissel Carroll
Questions? We're Here to Help
Director of Religious Education
(865) 482-2875