Frequently Asked Questions about OCIA
Answers To Your Questions About OCIA
Each year, men and women embark on an exploration of the Catholic faith. Some are deciding if they are called into the Catholic Church, others have been Catholic all their lives, and are now interested in discovering what this means. Together, we witness that our search for God is a lifelong journey on which we make the most progress when we walk it with others.
What is OCIA?
The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults, or OCIA, is a process of faith formation that presents an adult exploration of the Catholic faith. OCIA is a chance for people to learn the basics of what it means to be Catholic, to ask their burning questions, and to seek ways to open their lives to Jesus Christ more fully. OCIA is primarily for adults considering becoming Catholic and for Catholics who were never confirmed. OCIA prepares women and men to make a conscious choice whether or not they want to receive the sacraments of initiation offered by the Catholic Church (Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation). At Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church, we also provide opportunities for others to join in this process. We do this in recognition that faith is a lifelong journey, and that many people who have been Catholic their entire lives are now ready to ask new questions as adults.
What is the time commitment for OCIA?
The OCIA process at Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church is open-ended, and each group member progresses at their own pace. Inquirers are accepted at any time throughout the year, and full initiation into the Catholic Church occurs when each person is ready to take the responsibilities of being a Catholic. The group assembles for weekend liturgy with the Parish Community, is dismissed after the homily, and gathers to reflect upon and learn from what our liturgy teaches. This is the primary time commitment for R.C.I.A. members. In addition, there may be other commitments depending on what part of the process you’re going through. We recognize that many people have work and family schedules that won’t allow them to attend every meeting. It’s best to be at most gatherings because faith formation builds upon the liturgical cycle. If you have to miss a session, we’ll provide ways to catch up on what you have missed.
What if I’m not sure I want to become Catholic, or be confirmed?
Not a problem! We’re assuming that this is the case. Our OCIA is structured in a way that invites you to make smaller commitments until you’re sure you want to proceed. The initial meetings are designed to answer some basic questions and give you a feel for the journey. After the first few gatherings, we’ll explore the core Christian message while beginning to answer your most burning questions. When you are ready, we invite you to decide where this process will take you.
What can I do if I’m already a baptized Catholic but have not received Confirmation?
Confirmation is supposed to be when we choose the Catholic faith for ourselves at the “age of reason,” but many of us realize we weren’t aware enough to say “yes.” We often don’t engage in our spiritual journey until much later in life. It’s not uncommon for us to realize as adults that we want to know more about our faith and wrestle with some of our more difficult questions.
Is there any cost associated with OCIA?
None, whatsoever.
I still have questions. Who can I talk to?
Contact Ron Quinlan (843) 249-2356 or e-mail him at quinlan1@gmail.com.
Where do I sign up?
If you would like more information about the OCIA process at Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church, please complete our registration form here, at the Church, or the Parish Center, and we will begin the process.