The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is the spiritual and intellectual formation process by which adults prepare to join the Catholic Church. This is a spiritual journey which begins by responding to God’s call to seek the living God.
The OCIA program is available for adults who are currently not Catholic and wish to receive more education in the Faith, especially in preparation for the reception of the sacraments. The program is open to anyone who wishes to learn more about the Catholic faith with the intention of entering the Catholic Church.
The full program for the 2024-2025 year begins on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, in Knecht Conference Room at the school and continues through May. We ask that people who intend to enter the Church attend the classes regularly, live in a manner consistent with the faith, and discern prayerfully their calling. If one cannot attend the regular classes on a consistent basis, please call the parish for other arrangements.
To speak with Father Pavlick about the OCIA program contact him via email at [email protected] or phone him at 703-532-8815.
The OCIA process includes periods for growing in faith. These periods are stepping stones marked by liturgical rites, such as the Rite of Acceptance and Rite of Election, that are celebrated by the Church and within each parish community.
OCIA also provides education in the faith (catechesis) which consists of the teaching of Catholic Christian doctrine.
OCIA encourages prayer and builds a community of faith so that those entering and the Church and those already Catholic can learn and grow in the faith together.
OCIA provides a path to enter the Church, most commonly at the Easter Vigil Mass, through receiving the Sacraments of Initiation, Baptism (if not already received), Confirmation and the Holy Eucharist.