Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA)
Formerly Rite of Christian Initiation (RCIA)
OCIA is the church’s process of ministering to our non-Catholic brothers and sisters (aged seven years or older) who seek membership in the Catholic Church. It is a spiritual journey that encompasses periods of instruction, prayer, and participation in liturgical rights. While each individual’s length of study varies, preparation for the lifetime commitment is an ongoing, year-round process which may be joined at any time during the year.
Adult parishioners are invited to serve as either Group Discussion Facilitators or OCIA Sacramental Sponsors. Facilitators share their personal experience of the Catholic faith tradition with those who are seeking membership in the Catholic Church during scheduled study sessions. Sponsors shepherd one individual through the OCIA process by accompanying them during OCIA sessions, acting as sounding boards for concerns and questions, assisting the soon-to-be Catholic to integrate into the parish community, and being present for the Liturgical Rites associated with OCIA. Catechetical Ministers seeking more active participation are eligible to train to become diocesan certified OCIA Catechists.
For more information, contact the Sandra at the parish office (904) 284-9983 x 208 or sandra.curtis@sacredheartcatholicchurch.org