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Frequently Asked QuestionsOrder of Christian Initiation of AdultsHow committed to becoming Catholic do I have to be to begin the OCIA process?
You need only be interested in exploring the possibility of becoming Catholic. There is
no minimum degree of commitment required simply to begin the process. We welcome
you to come with your questions and to share in conversation about what it means to
live the Christian life in the Catholic tradition.
What if I start the OCIA process and then later feel unsure and might want to step
away for a time or even leave the process altogether?
Feeling unsure at times is natural. After all, moving in the direction of joining a particular
faith community is a significant step. It is always a good idea to speak with one of the
catechists (teachers) in the process to understand the source of your doubt. If you
remain uncertain and feel that now is not the right time to explore becoming Catholic,
you are always free to leave the process. If you step away from the process and later
decide you want to return, you will always be welcome.
When and how do I begin?
You already began! Even if you are simply testing the waters, that is an indication that
God is encouraging you. The next step is to meet with a member of the OCIA team to
discuss your faith journey and the OCIA process. If you received this FAQ after
contacting the parish office, a member of our team will reach out to arrange a meeting.
If you have not yet contacted the parish, please call the office. The office will ask you for
some basic information and one of us will then call you to arrange a meeting.
When do the OCIA classes meet?
We meet on Sunday mornings from 9am to 10:15 from September to May. If this time
does not work for you, we can connect you with one of the nearby parishes where the
OCIA classes meet on a different day and time. From Advent through Easter the class
will also attend Mass from 10:30am - 11:00am, after which they will return to class to
discuss the day’s Scripture readings. Class is generally finished by 11:30am.
What happens at OCIA?
Coordinated by a team of parishioners, we use a series of study guides to help
participants learn and discuss Catholicism. The classes also include communal prayer,
reading from Bible and Catechism, listening to presentations, questions and comments,
and sharing of information – especially material from the Bible and from Catholic
tradition.
How long is the process for someone who was never baptized?
The length of time varies, depending on when an individual feels ready to move from
the time of inquiry to the period of the Catechumenate. The Catechumenate includes
deeper spiritual and faith formation, prayer and reflection, and involvement with the
parish community. While there is no defined length of time for an unbaptized person
who is considering initiation to be a catechumen, the period generally extends for
almost one year. The final period of preparation for baptism coincides with the six
weeks of Lent, which precedes the celebration of Easter. The rites of initiation – the
sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist – are celebrated at the Easter Vigil
(the night before Easter Sunday).
I was already baptized in a non-Catholic church. Do I have to be baptized again?
As Catholics, we confess One baptism for the forgiveness of sins. A person would never
be “re-baptized” unless the original baptism is not considered valid by the Catholic
Church. A baptized Christian will make a Profession of Faith and receive the
Sacraments of Eucharist and Confirmation. A photo of your Baptismal certificate will be
required.
Do I need to have anyone with me to join OCIA?
The OCIA process leads to full acceptance into the Catholic Church via the Sacraments
noted above. The Sacraments of Baptism (if appropriate) and Confirmation require a
Catholic sponsor. If you know a St. Thomas parishioner whom you would like to invite to
sponsor you, feel free to ask that individual to participate in the OCIA process with you.
If you do not have someone in mind, one of the St. Thomas the Apostle parishioners
who generously responded to the call for sponsors in the OCIA process will be assigned
to you.
What if I have to miss some sessions because of family or work commitments or
travel?
No worries. We understand these conflicts. Please review the materials for that session
and bring your questions the following week. Your sponsor will also be a resource to
you. That understood, it is important to participate consistently as this will help you
recognize God’s love for you and hear God’s invitation to respond to that love.
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