Are you interested in learning more about the Catholic Church? Are you unbaptized but recognize a need for spirituality in your life? Are you baptized Catholic or baptized into another religion but never received any formal religious education? Are you married to a Catholic and attend Mass but just don't know what the next step is to become one of the Catholic faithful? You are not alone.
According the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, thousands are baptized into the Catholic Church in the United States each year on Holy Saturday during the Easter Vigil. Parishes welcome these new Catholics through the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA).
Prior to beginning the OCIA process, an individual comes to some knowledge of Jesus Christ, considers his or her relationship with Jesus Christ and is usually attracted in some way to the Catholic Church. This period is known as the Period of Evangelization and Precatechumenate. For some, this process involves a long period of searching; for others, a shorter time. Often, contact with people of faith and a personal faith experience lead people to inquire about the Catholic Church.
Who should attend OCIA?
For more information, please contact Amy Meadows at the parish office (228) 875-0654.