We’re looking for future Catholics



Most Catholics know about the OCIA program. OCIA stands for the “Order of Christian Initiation of Adults”. This program began after the Vatican Council for the purpose of education and formation of men and women seeking entry into the Catholic Church. Most parishes in the world have the OCIA program, or a version of it, available to inquirers. (Recently, the name of the program has been changed from RCIA to OCIA.)

The program is open to anyone who is not baptized (called a catechumen) or anyone previously baptized in a Protestant denomination (called a candidate). 

The program requires regular meeting sessions and, most importantly, attendance at Mass every Sunday. Gradual involvement in parish ministries and developing a life of prayer are also important goals. The OCIA team consists of the pastor and “sponsors” – Catholics who facilitate and assist in the process. The team slowly helps future Catholics to come to know Christ and the teachings of the Church and its traditions. It also helps them to develop “a Catholic way of life”.  Over time, those aspiring to be Catholics, become knowledgeable and comfortable about our faith and our parish through their good work. 

If you would like to know more about OCIA, please call the parish office. If you are unsure about your call to enter the Catholic Church, join us anyway. There is no pressure or timetable for you to worry about. Currently, the OCIA program is being coordinated by our pastor and Mr. Matthew Levine, one of our parish catechists. 

 

“Be a Catholic. When you kneel before an altar, do it in such a way that others may be able to recognize that you know before whom you kneel."

– St. Maximilian Kolbe, OFMConv

 

If you are curious about what it means to be Catholic and would like to learn more or if you are ready to start the journey now, contact Matt Levine, OCIA Coordinator, at youthministry@olvols.org or call (518) 273-7602 ext. 102.