Holy Cross Catholic Parish
MESA, ARIZONA
Adult Sacraments – OCIA
Adult Sacrament Classes
What is OCIA?
The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults is first and foremost an opportunity to develop or deepen your relationship with Jesus Christ, is modeled on the process of conversion, and is marked by different stages and rites (ceremonies). The process is for non-baptized adults (and children over 7 years old) and baptized Christian adults to become fully initiated into the Catholic Church. During this process, participants will learn about the doctrine of the Catholic faith and have opportunities to get questions answered.
Who is OCIA for?
- Adults, and children over 7 years old, who have never been baptized (Catechumen)
- Adults who were baptized in another Christian denomination (Candidates)
- Adults who were baptized Catholic (Candidates) who want to complete the Sacraments of Initiation (Confirmation and/or First Eucharist/Communion)
How long is the OCIA process?
The duration of the Order of Christian Initiation for adults (OCIA) process can vary, as it is a process of conversion and individual faith formation, rather than a fixed program with a predetermined end date.
When does OCIA meet?
OCIA sessions are on-going, meeting most Thursdays from early August thru late June.
- English Pre-Catechumenate (or Inquiry) Sessions meet from 6:30-8:00 pm. This period is a time for Inquirers to receive preliminary instruction in the Gospel message and Church teaching. It is the start of their journey and the beginning of faith formation and foundation. We are accepting new Inquirers continually throughout the year. Contact Patti Phillips for more information, or to make an appointment for a 30 min welcome meeting.
- English Catechumenate Sessions meet from 6:00-8:00 pm. In addition to the Thursday formation sessions, Catechumen and Candidates are invited to participate in various rites (ceremonies), many of which occur within the Sunday Liturgy (Mass). Through their participation in these rites, they publicly express their intention to follow Christ and respond to God’s call.
