RCIA? OCIA? WHAT’S GOING ON HERE?

Many people have heard of RCIA, the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, a process where people come to know God more deeply and enter the Catholic Church. But now it’s OCIA, the Order of Christian Initiation? 

Why the change? What difference does one word make?

The word "Order" more fully captures the spirit and purpose of initiating people more fully, not only into the Catholic Church, but into the greater understanding of the love that God has for all of us. Our sessions will cover Scripture, Tradition, the Church, and its sacraments, and, most importantly, the basis of our faith¾God's love for every human person and for all of creation. OCIA is a space where we explore the Living God whose Spirit is everywhere, who lives not only in our own hearts, our mind, and our souls, but in everyone’s. It is God’s deep desire to work through us to bring love, joy, and peace into this world that sorely needs it.

We welcome non-baptized adults who are considering entering the Catholic Church and baptized Catholics who wish to complete their Sacraments of Initiation (Holy Eucharist and Confirmation). We also welcome Catholics who would like to study their faith more deeply.

Are you interested? Do you know someone who might be? Spread the word to them. Pray for them. Pray for OCIA that we may touch people’s hearts and minds.

Our initial OCIA session will be held in the rectory dining room on Sunday, September 8 from 10:40 a.m. until 12:00 p.m.

Please email Art Blumberg at art.blumberg@hcjp.org.