OCIA - Order of Christian Initiation for Adults
The Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA) is a formal program of catechetical instruction, ascetical practice (prayer and spirituality), and liturgies whereby adults– called catechumens– are formally admitted into the Church and receive the Sacraments of Initiation– Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Eucharist. (The Sacrament of Penance is received later since baptism washes away all sin– original sin and actual sin.)
OCIA Process/Timeline
The process of Christian Initiation is comprised of 4 stages: Pre-Catechumenate, Catechumenate, Purification & Enlightenment, & Mystagogy. Individuals progress through these stages at different rates, depending on their interior transformation. Below is a detailed explanation of each stage.
Pre-Catechumenate
In the Pre-Catechumenate, individuals are called to Encounter Christ. At this stage, candidates are referred to as "Inquirers," because they are exploring and discerning. The Pre-Catechumenate can begin anytime in the calendar year. Inquirers are assigned a "mentor" that they will meet with regularly, and formal Pre-Catechumenate classes begin in January each year. Meetings are weekly, typically on Wednesday evenings.
Once an Inquirer has discerned that they are ready to begin formal instruction in the faith, they will go through the Rite of Entrance into the Catechumenate. This typically occurs the First or Second Sunday of Lent.
Catechumenate
At this stage, candidates are now referred to as "Catechumens." They are called to follow Jesus, and receive basic catechesis in the faith as well as a foundation in Scripture, prayer, church teaching, and parish life. In the Catechumenate, individuals attend weekly meetings, typically with a small group of catechumens, sponsors, and catechists. Catechumens are responsible for study outside of the weekly meetings and are expected to attend Mass regularly.
The Catechumenate Stage typically begins at the beginning of the season of Lent and will last until the beginning of the following Lent. This provides a full year of instruction in the faith and allows the Catechumens to learn through the entire Liturgical Year.
Once a Catechumen has discerned that they would like to prepare to receive the Sacraments, they will go through the Rite of Election. This typically occurs the Saturday before the First Sunday of Lent (Year 2). The Rite of Election is celebrated by the Archbishop.
Purification & Enlightenment
In the Purification & Enlightenment stage, candidates are now referred to as the "Elect," as they have been elected for Baptism at the Easter Vigil Mass. This stage takes place during the season of Lent. The Elect will continue to meet weekly, but meetings will be less focused on instruction and more focused on prayer and discernment. The stage of Purification and Enlightenment concludes with the Rite of Initiation at the Easter Vigil Mass. This is where candidates are initiated into the Church through the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist.
Mystagogy
In the Mystagogy stage, candidates are no longer attending weekly meetings but will continue to meet regularly with their sponsor and/or mentor. Mystagogy takes place during the Easter Season. The newly Baptized are referred to as "Neophytes." This stage can include additional catechesis and will focus on discipleship and participation in parish ministries.
Registration Information
If you are interested in joining us for OCIA in the coming year, please fill out the Initial Inquiry Form, by clicking the button below.
For more information, please contact:
Jessica Sarver, Coordinator of Communications & Parish Ministries
communications@northclarkcountycatholic.org
contact
101 St. Michaels Drive
Charlestown, IN 47111
Parish Office: 812-256-3200, stmichaelsecretary@northclarkcountycatholic.org
School Office: 812-256-3503, director@northclarkcountycatholic.org
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