Facebook YouTube Instagram Flocknote

Becoming Catholic (OCIA)

- Discover the Beauty of the Catholic Faith
  
  Are you curious about the Catholic Church, or feel called to explore a deeper relationship with Jesus? St. Patrick Parish offers the Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA), a supportive program that accompanies adults seeking to understand and join the Catholic faith.
  Participation in OCIA does not require you to become Catholic—this is a place to ask questions, learn, and grow in faith at your own pace.
  Whether you were baptized in another faith, baptized Catholic but never completed your sacraments, or are simply exploring, OCIA provides a welcoming environment to encounter Christ and the richness of the Church’s teachings.
- Your Journey in Four Stages
  
  OCIA is a guided process with four stages, each marked by reflection, prayer, and community:
  Inquiry Stage: Learn about the Catholic faith, ask questions, and share your experiences in a welcoming environment.
  Catechumenate Stage: Deepen your understanding of Church teachings, worship regularly, and engage in parish life.
  Enlightenment Stage: Intensive preparation during Lent, including prayer, reflection, and spiritual growth, culminating in the Sacraments at Easter Vigil.
  Mystagogy Stage: After initiation, explore how your new faith informs everyday life and strengthens your relationship with Christ.
  Sessions are informal, welcoming, and designed to meet you wherever you are in your faith journey. You’ll be accompanied by sponsors, catechists, and the parish community, ensuring you feel supported every step of the way.
- Preparing Your Heart & Mind
  
  Pray daily. Prayer is a conversation with the God who made you and loves you. If you’re new to prayer, start simply: “Jesus, I want to know and love you more.” Gradually speak from your heart and try incorporating traditional prayers like the Lord’s Prayer, Glory Be, and Hail Mary. Those more familiar with prayer may explore the Liturgy of the Hours or the Rosary.
  Read the Bible. Even a few verses a day can help you grow closer to God. Start with a Gospel—Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John—to learn about Jesus’ life. You can use a study Bible or a contemporary translation, then explore Genesis, Romans, and other books. The USCCB online Bible is a great resource.
  Attend Mass. Experiencing Mass helps you encounter Jesus in the Eucharist and the Word. If you are not Catholic, you are welcome to attend and receive a blessing instead of Communion—simply cross your arms over your chest when approaching the priest or minister.
  Use helpful apps or podcasts. Resources like The Bible in a Year with Fr. Mike Schmitz or the Hallow app provide guidance, reflection, and daily inspiration.
  Talk with practicing Catholics. Share your questions, doubts, or experiences. Ask why their faith matters to them and invite them to pray for you.
  Catholicism 101. This series is offered at St. Patrick along with OCIA. Read summeries.
  Explore Catholic resources. The Catechism of the Catholic Church summarizes Church teaching. Formed.org offers movies, audiobooks, podcasts, and shows to deepen your faith and as our gift to you, it can be accessed by clicking "find your parish subscription."
- How to Begin
  Reach out to Jackie Steckel to discuss your interest.
  Attend a Monday evening session starting in August/September.
  Connect with a sponsor—a practicing Catholic who will guide and pray with you.
  You do not need prior knowledge of Catholic teachings or the rosary. OCIA is a process of accompaniment, helping you encounter Jesus in the Mass, Scripture, prayer, and community life.
- Who is OCIA for?
  Adults who have never been baptized
  Baptized Christians wishing to become Catholic
  Baptized Catholics who have not received First Communion or Confirmation
  Anyone exploring the faith and seeking clarity or direction
- What is the difference between a catechumen and a candidate?
  A catechumen is someone who has never been baptized. A candidate is already a baptized Christian seeking full communion with the Catholic Church.
- What happens at the Easter Vigil?
  Those ready for the sacraments receive Baptism (if needed), Confirmation, and Holy Communion during the Church’s most beautiful liturgy of the year.
- Where do children receive formation if our whole family is joining the Church?
  Children and teens participate through our Parish School of Religion (PSR) or youth sacramental preparation programs. Jackie can guide you on the right path.