The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults
The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults, commonly referred to as "OCIA", is the normal process through which individuals age 7 and older may join the Catholic Church.
People desiring to join the Catholic Church often fall into one of three general categories:
- those who are not baptized in any Christian faith tradition
- those who are baptized in a non-Catholic Christian faith
- those who are baptized Catholic but may not have completed the remaining sacraments of initiation (Confirmation and Eucharist).
The OCIA process has several distinct stages, which include periods of initial discernment and inquiry, structured faith formation, prayer, and community-building to help those considering becoming Catholic.
We are always looking for volunteers to help guide those on the OCIA journey! Practicing, fully initiated Catholics are invited to share their faith and serve as sponsors for those individuals who are completing the OCIA process.
Classes normally begin each September and continue through the year, culminating in full reception into the Catholic Church at the Easter Vigil Mass.
To register or for more information please contact Katherine Kardok at adultformation@clusterparishes.com or 757-484-7335.
Our 2025-2026 series of classes will meet Thursday evenings at Church of the Resurrection from 6:30pm - 8:00pm beginning September 18th
Registration forms can be found here:
OCIA Registration Form for Adults
Cluster Catechumen Baptismal Registry (For adults requiring baptism, First Eucharist, and Confirmation)
Cluster First Eucharist and Confirmation Registry (For baptized adults requiring First Eucharist and Confirmation)
Cluster Confirmation Registry (For adults requiring Confirmation only)
Affidavit Regarding Reception of Sacraments (For adults having difficulty obtaining documentation of their non-Catholic baptism)
Godparent/Sponsor Attestation Form (English) (For a person's chosen sponsor or Godparent to complete)
Godparent/Sponsor Attestation Form (Spanish)
The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults Adapted for Children
Special Note for Non-Baptized Children Seven Years of Age and Older
Non-baptized children ages 7 through 17 are considered adults by the Catholic Church for the purposes of preparing for the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist. Special catechesis is available for these children and is conducted at an age-appropriate level of instruction.
To register or for more information please contact Theresa Carpenter at tcarpenter@clusterparishes.com or 757-484-7335.
Our 2025-2026 series of classes will meet Thursday evenings at Church of the Resurrection from 6:30-8:00 pm beginning September 18th.
Registration forms can be found here:
OCIA Adapted for Children Registration Form (English)
Formulario de inscripcion adaptado para ninos de OCIA (Espanol)
Godparent/Sponsor Form (English)
Godparent/Sponsor Form (Spanish)
You may return the forms to Theresa Carpenter at tcarpenter@clusterparishes.com or in person at our offices located at Church of the Resurrection.
**All children must also be registered with Children's Christian Formation. Please visit the Children's Formation page for an online form or you may fill out a hard copy form at our office at Church of the Resurrection.