Becoming Catholic
Are you thinking about becoming Catholic? Are you a Baptized Catholic but never received Confirmation of First Holy Communion? We are here to answer your questions and to walk with you. The first step is to reach out to the O.C.I.A. Coordinator, Nicole Carlson, to find out how to begin the process.
Who is O.C.I.A. For?
- Non-Catholics who are considering joining the Catholic Church and would like to learn more about the Catholic Faith.
- Those who have decided that they want to join the Catholic Church through Baptism (catechumen), or Profession of Faith (candidate).
- Those who were baptized Catholic as infants but never received religious education, Confirmation, or First Eucharist.
OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults) is the process by which adults are received into the church and receive the sacraments. The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults, or OCIA, is designed for adults who, after hearing about Jesus Christ, consciously and freely seek to enter a way of faith towards growing in relationship with Him. It involves periods of inquiry and growth. By God’s help, participants will be strengthened spiritually during their preparation and at the proper time will be fully received into the Catholic Church.
- Are you an adult interested in becoming Catholic?
- Are you or someone you know interested in learning more about Jesus Christ and the Catholic Church?
Please note: There is no commitment to become Catholic to begin the first phase of the OCIA process.
This is a year-round process that can begin anytime. Depending on where you are in your journey can determine how long the path is through this process. The first step is to set up an introductory meeting with Nicky to assess the right path for you. Please fill out the Inquiry Form and Nicky will contact you to set up a time to meet.
More about the process
The O.C.I.A. (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults, formerly R.C.I.A.) is the official ritual text of the Catholic Church that prescribes the process by which a person who has never been baptized and has never been formed in the Christian faith is to be evangelized by the Word of God, formed (catechized) through the teachings and traditions of the Church, established in the Christian way of life, and welcomed into the Christian community through various periods and ritual steps (1-2, 4-8).
The OCIA also provides guidance for the formation of “particular circumstances”: persons baptized in other Christian communities who wish to be received into the Catholic Church and for the formation of baptized, uncatechized Catholics who wish to complete their initiation through confirmation and the Eucharist (3).
The manual used in the O.C.I.A. process states that the rite is designed for adults "...who after hearing the mystery of Christ proclaimed, consciously and freely seek the living God." The manual also states when speaking about those in the process "By God’s help they will be strengthened spiritually during their preparation and at the proper time receive the sacraments fruitfully."
The purpose of O.C.I.A. is to offer a year-round process with the objective of inviting catechumens (unbaptized) and candidates (baptized) to enter a deeper experience of faith through formation as disciples.
Frequently Asked Questions
If I start the process, will I be required to join the Church?
No, not immediately. Many people begin the O.C.I.A. process simply to learn more about the Catholic faith. You are not required to commit to becoming Catholic until you feel ready.
What is the process and what is my commitment to the process?
By joining the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (O.C.I.A.), you make a two-fold commitment:
- To actively participate in the process;
- To approach it with an open heart, being receptive to the Holy Spirit’s guidance.
The process includes weekly sessions, participation in special rites (liturgical celebrations), and regular Mass attendance. Your commitment is to fully engage in these elements.
What personal information is required?
You'll need to provide:
- Information about your religious background;
- A copy of your baptismal certificate, if available;
- Attendance at an initial meeting with the O.C.I.A. Coordinator.
This meeting helps us understand your background, ensure the process is clearly explained, and assess any special needs—particularly regarding marital history, which may involve an annulment or convalidation.
What if I can’t attend every session or activity?
While we understand that life can interfere, your presence at all sessions and events is very important. If you must miss something, contact the O.C.I.A. Coordinator ahead of time so we can arrange for you to make up what you missed.
Do I need to be re-baptized if I was baptized in another Christian faith?
No. The Catholic Church recognizes one valid baptism done with water “In the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” If your prior baptism was valid according to Catholic teaching, it will be honored. If not, a Catholic baptism may be necessary.
How do I get a copy of my baptismal certificate?
Contact the church where you were baptized—most churches keep baptismal records. Your parents may also have a copy. If the church has closed or the record is unavailable, we’ll help you explore other ways to confirm your baptism if needed.