The OCIA/OCIC Ministry fosters discipleship by helping individuals encounter Jesus and develop a personal relationship with Him. This is achieved through self-discovery facilitated by three core components: understanding Catholic faith, exploring scripture, and deepening the commitment to living out their faith and sharing it with others. The ministry is adaptable, meeting people at their current stage and supporting them on their journey, mirroring Jesus’ own approach.
Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA)
The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is the process for adults who have not been baptized into the Roman Catholic Church or want to become full members of the Roman Catholic Church.
Regardless of whether you come from another denomination, have no formal religious background, or are a baptized Roman Catholic who has not yet received the other sacraments (Eucharist, Reconciliation, Confirmation) we are committed to helping you prepare to be a faithful member of our Church.
OCIA follows a schedule that begins in the Fall. During weekly 1-2 hour sessions, we explore the Catholic faith, prayer, sacramental life, scripture, and the traditions of the Church, which has been around for over 2000 years. We share our faith, our knowledge, and our care as we journey with you.
If you are interested in learning more about OCIA contact [insert appropriate contact information for Deacon Mike here]. Inquiring by no means imposes obligation. There is no cost for the program. All that is required is an open heart to what God has in store for you.
NOTE: OCIA classes are not just for those wishing to receive sacraments, but are a great resource of knowledge for those wishing to brush up on their Catholic faith. Feel free to attend the sessions and share your insight. For the complete syllabus and dates, click the PDF file below.
Order of Christian Initiation for Children (OCIC)
The Order of Christian Initiation for Children (OCIC) is the process for children ages 7-17 who have not received their sacraments of Baptism, First Reconciliation, and/or First Eucharist in the Roman Catholic Church.
We will work with you and your child to develop an individualized program that helps them progress in their faith towards receiving their Sacraments.
If you are interested in learning more about OCIC contact [insert appropriate contact information for Kristin Dittman here].
We look forward to meeting you and your child and working with you to help them grow in faith.
Why explore becoming Catholic with ICSP?
ICSP Catholic Communities offers a vibrant and time-honored spiritual path rooted in centuries of tradition. By exploring the Catholic faith, you’ll discover a profound source of wisdom and guidance for your life’s journey. Through the sacraments, the rich liturgy, and the enduring teachings of the Church, you’ll find meaningful opportunities to encounter God’s presence and deepen your personal faith. Joining Catholicism connects you to a global family of believers, united in worship, prayer, and service, offering a supportive and nurturing community as you grow in holiness. Embracing Catholicism with ICSP means embracing a faith that actively promotes love, compassion, and justice, inviting you to participate in building a world filled with God’s grace and mercy, right here in our community and beyond.
What does the Order of Christian Initiation look like within the ICSP Catholic Communities?
Are you considering becoming Catholic, completing your Sacraments, or supporting someone on their journey as a sponsor within our ICSP family?
- Are you an adult interested in receiving Baptism, Holy Communion, or Confirmation?
- Do you have a child older than second grade who needs Baptism or First Communion?
- Were you baptized Catholic and are now seeking to receive Communion and/or Confirmation?
- Do you feel called to be a Sponsor for someone exploring the Catholic faith?
Then the OCIA/OCIC Ministry at ICSP Catholic Communities is here for you! We invite you to connect with us for an initial conversation to discover what this journey is all about. Bring your questions, share your story – we are here to listen and walk alongside you on your unique spiritual path, just as Jesus walks with each of us every day.
The OCIA/OCIC Ministry at ICSP welcomes adults and children beyond the second grade. Throughout this process, we explore various aspects of deepening our relationship with Jesus, understanding the tenets of the Catholic faith, the profound mystery of faith in our lives, and nurturing the human, catechetical, and spiritual growth of each participant. This journey of faith is open to all – baptized or unbaptized, Catholic or non-Catholic – anyone who identifies as a “seeker,” whether deeply drawn, simply intrigued, or just curious about the Catholic faith.
We extend a special invitation to those who:
- Feel a deep yearning within to cultivate a stronger relationship with God through Jesus Christ and His Church.
- Have considered joining the Catholic Church, but haven’t yet taken that step.
- Have not had the opportunity to receive all the Sacraments of Christian Initiation (Baptism, First Eucharist, and/or Confirmation).
- Are already baptized and wish to join our ICSP community or complete their Sacraments.
- Are seeking a welcoming and supportive faith community to call home.
When does the Order of Christian Initiation journey begin at ICSP?
We offer individual introductory conversations throughout the year for those interested in beginning the process, those with questions about the Catholic faith, or those looking to join our ICSP Catholic Communities. Please reach out to schedule a time to connect. The formal OCIA/OCIC process typically begins each fall. This journey is a period of ongoing discernment. Those who complete the process joyfully receive their Sacraments at the Easter Vigil. Even if the formal process has begun, if you are discerning, questioning, and considering this path, it is never too late to connect with us. We are committed to meeting you where you are. Introductory conversations are available year-round. Please don’t hesitate to contact us with your questions – we would be delighted to speak with you!
Connect with the ICSP OCIA/OCIC Team: [Insert Contact Information Here – e.g., email address, phone number, link to a contact form on the ICSP website]
What does it mean to be a Sponsor in our ICSP Catholic Community?
Are you a member of ICSP Catholic Communities looking for a meaningful way to serve and accompany someone as they journey towards becoming Catholic? Would you like to support someone preparing to receive Communion, Confirmation, or full initiation into the Catholic Church? We would be thrilled to connect with you and share more about the vital and rewarding role of a Sponsor in our Becoming Catholic Ministry. Please contact us [Insert Contact Information Here – e.g., email address, link to a specific contact person] to learn more.