WELCOME TO THE O.C.I.A HOMEPAGE

OCIA, Order of Christian Initiation of Adults, is a process within the Roman Catholic Church for adults to explore their faith and prepare for full membership and the sacraments of initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist). 

For Seekers and Inquirers:
It is designed for adults, including those never baptized and those baptized in other Christian traditions, who wish to become fully initiated members of the Catholic Church. 

Faith Formation:
Participants engage in weekly classes, prayer, community sharing, study of scripture, learning about Catholic beliefs and teachings.

Liturgical Rites:
The process includes special ceremonies (rites) at different points, marking the stages of growth in faith. 

The Four Periods (Stages) of the OCIA:

1. Period of the Pre-catechumenate:
The initial time of evangelization and inquiry, where individuals are invited to hear the good news of Jesus Christ and learn about the Catholic Church.

2. Period of the Catechumenate:
A longer time of formation where participants learn about the Church's life and beliefs, respond to God's call through scripture, and begin to participate in the community.

3. Period of Purification and Enlightenment:
This period, occurring during Lent, is a time of intense prayer and reflection for those preparing for baptism at the Easter Vigil.

4. Period of Mystagogy:

A period of post-initiation reflection and integration into the community life of the Church after receiving the sacraments of initiation. 

What Happens at the End of the Process?
Easter Vigil:
For those who are unbaptized, the process culminates at the Easter Vigil, where they receive the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and First Holy Communion.

Full Membership:
New Catholics are then fully integrated into the life of the parish and the wider Church.

Harrisburg Diocese OCIA Events 

REGISTER TO USE FORMED.ORG 

Are you interested in learning more about the Catholic Church? Perhaps you’ve been thinking of becoming a member of Saint Patrick Parish, or perhaps you are just curious about what Catholics believe.

If you have ever reflected on any of the above, be at peace! God is calling you and He will lead you. We are here to help you to grow in faith and understanding of the teachings of Jesus and His Church.

Your Welcome to join us for Weekly OCIA Preparation Classes  on Thursday evenings 6:30  - 8:00 pm. We usually meet in the Saint Patrick - Faith Formation Room in the Cafeteria.

If Interested in OCIA view links below:

• Inquirer Information Form
• Sponsor Qualifications.  

Teen Initiation (Grades 9 -12):

Teen OCIC (Order of Christian Initiation for Children) is a Catholic Church program that prepares teens, to become fully initiated members by receiving the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist. The program involves an extended faith formation process, often lasting one or two years, with significant family involvement, to teach the basics of Catholic faith and prepare them for these important sacraments, usually at the Easter Vigil.

If interested in the Teen Initiation Process please contact the parish office.

(717-848-2007 or [email protected])

Children Initiation (Grades 3-8):

Children who have not been baptized or of families entering the Catholic Church from another denomination are asked to register for our Family Faith Formation Sessions (Click Here). 

Those children will form the O.C.I.C (Order of Christian of Initiation of Children) and will meet throughout the year to prepare them for reception of the necessary sacraments. Please also register for Children Needing Sacraments (Grades 3-8 - OCIC) (Click Here).

For more information, please contact 
Mr. Patrick Copenheaver
  Coordinator of Faith Formation
  717-848-2007 ext 115
reledstpatrickyork.net

If the Spirit is moving you to consider joining the Catholic Church,
  please reach out to Father Kelley so you can schedule an appointment to meet. 
  We look forward to accompany you on this journey of faith!