Becoming Catholic (OCIA)

- Who Do I Contact?
  
  Anthony Rosselli
  
  Director of Evangelization
  
  614.263.8824 ext 004
  arosselliolp-parish.org
- Class of 2024
- Links
  
  OCIA Candidate Form
  
  OCIA Sponsor Form
- What is the OCIA?
  In short, the "Order of Christian Initiation for Adults" (OCIA) is the preparation adults receive in order to enter the Catholic Church. At Our Lady of Peace, it is an initiation into the faith through lectures, discussions, multi-media presentations, prayer, and time for reflection. Note that, the OCIA was formerly called the RCIA ("Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults").
  
  Who is the OCIA for?
  Typically, the OCIA is for any adult who is interested in receiving the sacraments of initiation: baptism, first communion, and confirmation. Attending OCIA sessions does not necessarily mean someone is certain they're ready to become Catholic. It is also for "inquirers" -- those who are simply interested in learning more.
  
  The OCIA thus includes people in several different situations:
  Candidates: Candidates have been previously baptized in other Christian churches and desire to now become Catholic. Candidates are potentially seeking the sacraments of first communion and confirmation.
  Catechumens: Catechumens have not been previously baptized in any Christian church. Catechumens are potentially seeking all three sacraments of initiation: baptism, first communion, and confirmation.
  Confirmandi: Confirmandi have been previously baptized in the Catholic Church but never received the sacrament of confirmation. After the OCIA, confirmandi receive the sacrament of confirmation.
  Inquirers: Inquirers are non-Catholics who simply want to explore the possibility of becoming Catholic. If they find themselves ready to proceed, they will become candidates or catechumens.
  
  What does the OCIA look like?
  The OCIA at Our Lady of Peace meets every week on Thursdays year-round. There is a short talk, time for discussion and Q and A, as well as introductions to Catholic prayers, devotions, and worship. For catechumens and candidates, there are also several short rites along the way that take place during weekend Masses.
  
  At the Easter Vigil Mass -- the night before Easter Sunday morning -- catechumens, candidates, and confirmandi receive their sacraments of initiation.
  How do I learn more?
  If you are interested or would like more information, please contact Anthony Rosselli at [email protected].