Becoming Catholic
I’m interested in becoming Catholic. Who do I contact?
For more information about OICA (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults) at St. Eulalia’s, please contact Deacon Nick Rocco at deacon@saint-eulalia.com.
When does the preparation process begin? How long does the process take?
Preparations for OCIA begin in the fall, and culminate in the receiving of the sacraments of initiation at the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday.
When and how often are classes held?
The specific schedule of meetings adapts each year to the schedules of the participants and leaders.
What is OCIA?
OCIA is the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults, or the formal name for the process of becoming Catholic. Beginning with a period of self-reflection and discovery, called the Period of Evangelization and Precatechumenate, each individual seeking to learn more about the Catholic faith explores their desire and calling to the process of joining the Church.
The next step cements that desire in the Period of the Catechumenate, when formal learning about the Catholic faith takes place with a class of others and their leaders. Catechumens then receive the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Holy Communion, and Confirmation) at the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday.
I’ve already received some of the Sacraments of Initiation. Does this apply to me?
Yes. The Catholic Church recognizes mainstream Christian Baptism into any denomination. If you are already baptized, you will not be baptized again. However, the Catholic Church is firmly rooted in the real presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist, a defining factor of the Catholic faith, and in receiving the Gifts of the Holy Spirit at Confirmation.
If you have not already received First Communion or Confirmation in the Catholic Church, and you desire to come into full communion with the Catholic faith, we welcome you to take the first step and contact Deacon Nick Rocco.