Becoming Catholic: OCIA
The order of Christian Initiation of Adults / Becoming Catholic
Please note: in 2024 the sacramental rite (RCIA) was revised and renamed the
Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA). For now the initials will be used interchangeably.
For more information, contact Maria Parre, Coordinator of Adult Faith Formation, mparre@sjnchurch.com or 803.788.3252, ext. 326.
The Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA) is an opportunity for those who wish to become Catholic or receive the remaining sacraments of initiation, such as Confirmation and The Holy Eucharist. Take this step toward a deeper relationship with Christ and become a fully initiated member of the Church. This program is the main path for adults—and older children—who want to Become Catholic, especially those who haven't been baptized or were baptized in another Christian tradition. It's a journey—a step-by-step process where people take time to explore the Catholic faith, ask questions, grow spiritually, and come to know Jesus more deeply. The process normally takes at least a year, with the three sacraments of initiation - Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist - received at the Easter Vigil.
With the help of the Holy Spirit, and the support of the Church community, those on this journey will gradually learn more about God and our faith. Along the way, they experience special moments (called rites) that mark important steps in their conversion. The Celebration of the sacraments happens usually at Easter when they officially become part of the Catholic Church.
Baptized Catholics who have already received their First Communion, they’ll be part of a different program focused on preparing for Confirmation, and won’t be in the OCIA process.
Resources:
Sorting It All Out: Children and Adults in the Initiation Process
To help you recognize who is who, what process is needed, who does what, and where is it recorded, read the stories and scenarios that follow.
Stages and Rituals for Unbaptized Adults
There are four stages as well as rituals that mark these stages for persons who are not baptized. What follows outlines these stages.
Stages and Rituals for Baptized Christians
There are four similar periods and different rituals for baptized Christians, and uncatechized Catholics who have had no formation and have received neither Confirmation nor Eucharist. See the attached outline.
Are you confused by some of the terms, names, objects, rites, etc. used in the RCIA/OCIA process? Here’s a glossary that might help. We’ll keep expanding it as we go.
