We are blessed to have you here! Whether you are curious about the Catholic faith, have been away from the Church for a while, or need to receive your sacraments as an adult, we are here to walk you through the journey with open arms and an open heart.
Many adults who are entering the Catholic Church, or who are discerning becoming Catholic, participate in a process known as the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA), formerly called RCIA. This process is designed for individuals who have reached the age of reason (seven years of age or older) and have not been baptized. OCIA also serves adults who were baptized but have not yet received the sacraments of First Holy Communion and/or Confirmation.
The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is a gradual journey by which the Church prepares adults for full communion in the Catholic faith. This journey takes place in several stages, each intended to deepen faith and lead the individual more fully to Christ. For adults seeking Baptism, the process ordinarily includes the following:
- Inquiry: This is a time of exploration and discernment. Those in inquiry are learning about the Catholic faith, asking questions, and considering God’s call, without yet making a formal commitment to enter the Church.
- Catechumenate: Those who choose to continue are received as catechumens. During this period, they grow in their understanding of the teachings of the Church, Sacred Scripture, and the Christian way of life, while being formed in prayer and participation in the life of the parish.
- Purification and Enlightenment: As Easter approaches, the Church accompanies the catechumens in a more focused time of prayer and reflection. This stage helps them prepare spiritually to profess the faith and to receive the sacraments at the Easter Vigil.
- Sacraments of Initiation: At the Easter Vigil, the catechumens are welcomed into the Church and receive the Sacraments of Initiation—Baptism, Confirmation, and the Holy Eucharist—becoming full members of the Catholic Church.
- Mystagogy: After being received into the Church, the newly initiated continue to reflect on the sacraments they have received, especially the Holy Eucharist, and grow more deeply into the life of faith and the parish community.
If you are interested in OCIA to become Catholic, or if you are an adult in need of sacraments, please fill out the following form:
If you have any questions or need guidance, please feel free to email our Faith Formation team at faithformation@stjosephorlando.org or call us at (407) 337-5163.