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, and 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, please complete the OCIA Registration Form for Adults and return the form to Katherine Kardok at adultformation@clusterparishes.com or in person.
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 children ages 7 though 17 and is conducted at an age-appropriate level of instruction. These students will meet once per month on Wednesday evenings in addition to their foundational Sunday formation classes. For non-baptized children ages 7 through17, please complete the OCIA Registration Form for Children and return the form to Sonia Sorto at christianformation@clusterparishes.com or in person at our offices located at Church of the Resurrection.
Adults: Our 2024-2025 series of classes will meet Thursday evenings at Church of the Resurrection from 6:30pm - 8:00pm beginig September 11th
Children ages 7-15: Our 2024-2025 series of classes will meet once per month on Wednesday evenings at Church of the Resurrection from 5:00-6:30pm beginning September 18th.
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 - OCIA (For a person's chosen sponsor or Godparent to complete)
Please contact Katherine if you are interested