O.C.I.A. (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults)

Catechumenate: This is the term used for the process, which takes place over an undetermined period of time, during which adults and older children prepare to receive the Sacraments of Christian Initiation.

Catechumen: An unbaptized adult or older child who has begun the process of preparation (the Catechumenate) is called a Catechumen.

Candidate: An adult or older child already baptized into another Christian denomination who seeks full initiation into the Catholic Christian Tradition is called a Candidate.

Election: This is the term used to express the celebration of God’s call of a Catechumen to receive the Sacraments of Initiation. The Catechumen, in responding to God’s call is elected (chosen) to become a Catholic.

Sponsors: A member of the parish community “walks” with each person preparing to recieve the Sacraments of Christian Initiation. A sponsor accompanies the newcomer by giving support and guidance. Sponsors may also be chosen as godparents for those to be baptized.

Christian Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist. At the Easter Vigil (Saturday evening before Easter Sunday) those who are not baptized and are ready to be received into the Catholic Church will be baptized and receive Confirmation and the Eucharist.

Adults who are already baptized in another Christian tradition may, when they are ready throughout the church year, make a Profession of Faith and receive the sacraments of Confirmation and the Eucharist at a Sunday Mass.

Initiating Community: The parish is the Initiating Community. All the new members of St. Thomas are welcomed, prepared and supported by the entire faith community. It is within the context of the community and its prayer life that newcomers are received into the Catholic Faith.

Mystagogia: This is a term which describes the continuing education (catechesis) of the newly initiated Christian. It is a time for living a sacramental life, living out the Gospel way of life and for becoming more involved in the parish community.

More on OCIA
More on the OCIA Journey
Are you interested in learning about the Catholic Faith?You are welcome to begin a journey of exploration & faith with the people of St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Faith Community.

For information call: Chari Rosales in the Adult Faith Formation Office: 630.355.8980, x138 or send an inquiry to Chari.