Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (O.C.I.A.)
Your faith journey is a precious gift initiated by a call from God. This call can manifest in various ways, such as a deep spiritual hunger, the influence of a friend or spouse, or witnessing God’s love in action. The O.C.I.A. is a unique and meaningful way to respond to this call, offering a structured initiation process into the Catholic Community of Faith.
What is the O.C.I.A.?
The OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults), also called the Catechumenate, is a process of initiation into the Catholic Community of Faith for persons who are experiencing a conversion in their lives and seeking either Christian baptism in the Catholic Church or full Communion with the Catholic tradition of Eucharist and Confirmation.
The O.C.I.A. is not just a course of instruction but a unique conversion process tailored to the individual needs of the participants. It offers a comprehensive study of the Gospels, Catholic Christian teaching, and the acceptance of Christian values and morality. Moreover, it fosters the development and deepening of a life of prayer and action, all within the supportive and engaging environment of the local Christian community.
Who is OCIA for?
- Non-Catholics who want to find out more about the Catholic Faith
- Those who want to join the Catholic Church through Baptism or the Profession of Faith
- Those baptized Catholic as infants but never received religious education, Confirmation, or First Eucharist.
Schedule/Time Commitment:
We are excited to offer our 2024-2025 OCIA class. We offer an opportunity to join a small group to learn more about our faith. Sessions focus on the teachings and experience of the Church and prepare individuals to celebrate the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist during the Easter season. You can participate in the process with your questions, insights, and faith story in a warm, accepting setting. Classes will begin with the Pre-Inquiry in mid-August and are open to anyone, even if you are already Catholic and want to learn more. For information, please get in touch with Sister Maria Elena. For information about programs for adults, please get in touch with Sister Maria Elena at 786-358-0454.
Periods and Stages of the Process:
- Stage of Evangelization and Pre-catechumenate.
- Stage of Catechumenate.
- Stage of Purification and Enlightenment.
- Stage of Postbaptismal Catechesis or Mystagogy.
2024-2025 Class Times
Classes will happen in in St Mary Magdalen Church Parish Hall.
- Saturday (English Class) - TBA