The RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) /OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults) is a process through which non-baptized men and women enter the Catholic Church, and those baptized in other Christian faiths enter full communion with us. It includes several stages marked by study, prayer and rites at Mass. Participants in RCIA/OCIA are known as Catechumens (non-baptized) and Candidates (those seeking full communion).

They undergo a process of conversion as they study the Gospel, profess faith in Jesus and the Catholic Church, and receive the sacraments of initiation - Baptism, Communion and Confirmation.

What is RCIA?

RCIA/OCIA is the new - though truly old - process introduced by the Church in the 1960s, to prepare adults for Catholic baptism. Actually based on the tradition of the very early Church, RCIA is now embraced in dioceses all over the world. No longer do individuals seek out private "tutoring" with a priest in order to become Catholic.  Today, this gradual embrace of Catholic doctrine -- and receiving of the Holy Spirit -- involves the learner, the priest and the entire parish community. RCIA is more frequently now being referred to as the OCIA. We continue to use both during this time of transition

Learners progress through a time of "inquiry," (early questioning), to the "catechumenate," (intense study) and through "purification and enlightenment," (preparation for the Easter sacraments). At the Easter Vigil, in a powerful, Spirit-filled liturgy, they are baptized and become "neophytes." And, like the rest of us, they continue with conversion that will last the rest of their lives.

Anyone who feels called to learn more about the Church as in "inquirer" or to volunteer is invited to call the parish office.

Sessions are hosted throughout the year: weekly from September to Easter, and monthly from Easter to the end of August. Meeting times, dates and locations vary. They are announced on this website and in the weekly bulletin.