OCIA, the Order of Christian Initiation for Adults, refers to the process of formation, ritual, and prayer through which adults prepare for entrance into the Church through The Sacraments of Initiation, or entrance into Full Communion of the Catholic Church for those already validly baptized in non-Catholic Christian churches, or completion of the Sacraments of Initiation (Confirmation and First Eucharist).
The preparation period for someone with no religious education background and reception of no sacraments of Initiation generally takes about 7-8 months. The preparation time is individualized to each person in the program. The process culminates at the Easter Vigil Mass with adult Baptism, Confirmation and, reception of the Eucharist for the first time. In addition to the celebration of Baptism, Confirmation, and First Eucharist, non-Catholic Christian adults make the profession of faith and are received into Full Communion of the Catholic Church.
Are you or someone you know thinking about becoming Catholic?
The process begins with an interview to determine the extent of preparation that is needed for each individual. Those seeking information about the entrance into the Church or the completion of the Sacraments of Initiation should call the rectory (516-354-0359) for an appointment.
