What is OCIA?

Order of Christian Initiation fo Adults(OCIA)

We invite you to look more deeply into the richness of our Catholic faith through the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) program. OCIA is an educational and spiritual formation process where conversion of the heart brings us to Jesus Christ through learning, prayer, discussion, and community.

Whether you are simply curious to learn more about the Catholic faith or seriously discerning entrance into the Catholic Church, we are here to walk with you. Our parish strives to help seekers recognize the voice of God, grow closer to Him, and discover the joy of life in the Church.

Sacraments of Initiation

To become a full member of the Catholic Church, individuals receive the three Sacraments of Initiation:

• Baptism – entrance into the Christian life and the Church.
• Confirmation – sealing with the gift of the Holy Spirit.
• Eucharist – full participation in the Body and Blood of Christ.

Adults who journey through OCIA are prepared for these sacraments and receive them at the Easter Vigil Mass, the most sacred liturgy of the year, where they are joyfully welcomed into our parish family.

Who is OCIA For?

OCIA is designed for:

• Catechumens – Unbaptized adults who seek to become Catholic through Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist.
• Candidates for Full Communion – Adults already baptized in another Christian faith who wish to be received into full communion with the Catholic Church.
• Candidates Completing Initiation – Baptized Catholics who have not yet received First Communion and/or Confirmation and desire to complete their initiation.

The Journey of OCIA
Our OCIA program is led by Deacon Michael Brown along with a dedicated team of catechists and pre-catechists. Together, they accompany catechumens and candidates throughout their journey of faith, offering teaching, mentorship, and encouragement.

The process typically begins in the fall (September/October) and continues through the Easter season. Along the way, participants experience the Rites of OCIA—liturgical steps of blessing, enrollment, and affirmation—celebrated within the parish community on designated Sundays. These rites mark and affirm the spiritual progress of each participant as they move closer to the Sacraments of Initiation.

If you are unsure whether OCIA is right for you, please know that questioning, exploring, and simply being curious are welcome starting points. We are here to meet you where you are and to walk with you in faith.

“If up till now you have kept Him at a distance, step forward. He will receive you with open arms. If you have been indifferent, take a risk: you won’t be disappointed. If following Him seems difficult, don’t be afraid, trust Him, be confident that He is close to you.”
— Pope Francis

OCIA 2026–2027 Schedule

Our next OCIA journey begins in late Summer 2026. Participants gather each Sunday at 9:00 a.m. for prayer, learning, faith-sharing, and spiritual formation as they grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ and the Catholic Church.

As part of this year's experience, participants are also invited to take part in Companions in Christ: OCIA & Lay Evangelization Circles—a welcoming community where faith is nurtured through shared meals, meaningful conversation, prayer, fellowship, and mutual encouragement. Together, we seek to grow as missionary disciples, accompanying one another as we discover and live the Gospel in everyday life.

Throughout the year, participants will celebrate significant liturgical milestones with the parish community during Sunday Mass. As each person's faith journey unfolds, those who are spiritually prepared and discern that they are ready may celebrate the Sacraments of Initiation at the appropriate time, often during the Easter season, while others may continue their journey at the pace that best supports their growth in faith.

Is OCIA Right for You?

OCIA is for adults who are exploring the Catholic faith, seeking a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ, or preparing to receive the Sacraments of Initiation. You are warmly invited if you are:

Interested in Becoming Catholic through Baptism.

Baptized in another Christian tradition and discerning full communion with the Catholic Church through a Profession of Faith.

A baptized Catholic who wishes to complete the Sacraments of Initiation by receiving First Eucharist and/or Confirmation.

Whether you are simply curious about the Catholic faith, returning to the Church after time away, or ready to take the next step in your spiritual journey, you are welcome here. Bring your questions, your experiences, and your desire to know Christ more deeply. We look forward to walking alongside you as companions in Christ, trusting that God will lead each person according to His perfect timing.

For additional information, please use the form below to contact Deacon Michael Brown  and/or

use this link to access our Inquirer Information Form to get started.