O.C.I.A.

Outline of Our OCIA Program

PERIOD OF EVANGELIZATION
This is a time, of no fixed duration or structure, for the inquire and introduction to gospel values, and opportunity for the beginnings of faith.

FIRST STEP: ACCEPTANCE INTO THE ORDER OF CATECHUMENS
This is the liturgial rite, usually celebrated on the first Sunday of Advent, marking the beginning of the catechumenate proper, as the candidates express and the Church accepts their intention to respond to God's call to follow the way of Christ.

PERIOD OF THE CATECHUMENATE
This is the time, in duration corresponding to the progress of the individual, for the nurturing and growth of the catechumens' faith and conversion to God; celebrations of the word and prayers are meant to assist the process.

SECOND STEP: ELECTION (OR ENROLLMENT OF NAMES OF THE ELECT)
This is the litugical rite, usually celebrated on the First Sunday of Lent, by which the Church formally ratifies the catechumens' readiness for the saraments of initiation and the catechumens, now the elect, express the will to recieve these sacraments.

OCIA Requirements:

• Age: 7-17 years old
• Not baptized
• Registration for the preparation 
• A copy of birth certificate
• Parent(s)/Guardian have to be present in the sessions
• Be present and participate in each session (In case of emergency, please call the parish office and ask for Lupita. Leave a message if she is not able to take your call).
• Participate in Faith Formation

• Need to have godparent for Baptism and Confirmation
• It can be a single person, no matter the gender.
• If the godparent is married, it has to be a sacramental marriage. Please bring a copy of sacramental marriage certificate.
• Has to be active in the faith (receiving the sacraments of reconciliation and communion frequently)
• Be present in the sessions if they live in the area
• If they are members of another parish, bring a recommendation letter signed by the priest of that parish.