Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA)
The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (formerly RCIA) is the normative process by which adults are gradually introduced to the Catholic faith and sacramental life. Rooted in Sacred Scripture, guided by the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and sustained by prayer and the support of the Christian community, this journey mirrors the ancient catechumenal formation of the early Church (cf. RCIA, nos. 1–5).

This process is intended for:
Unbaptized adults, who seek to receive the Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, and the Holy Eucharist. Baptized non-Catholic Christians, who desire to enter into full communion with the Catholic Church through a profession of faith, Confirmation, and the Eucharist. Baptized Catholics, who have not yet completed their sacraments of initiation (Confirmation and/or First Holy Communion).

OCIA Adapted for Children and Adolescents
In accordance with OCIA, Part II:2, the Church also provides a parallel process for children and youth of catechetical age (age 7 and older). This adapted OCIA process includes:
Unbaptized children and adolescents, who will be prepared to receive Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist. Baptized but uncatechized youth, particularly in middle or high school, who have not yet received First Holy Communion and/or Confirmation and seek deeper formation in the Catholic faith. As the Catechism teaches, “The sacraments of Christian initiation lay the foundations of every Christian life… they confer the graces needed for salvation” (CCC, no. 1212). Therefore, we ask that all families participating in OCIA Adapted be registered and actively involved in the life of
oly Childhood of Jesus  Parish. Recognizing that parents are the primary educators of their children in the faith (CCC, no. 2223), your active participation in the formation process is both vital and required.

Contact:  Margo Damoose
[email protected]