OCIA Introductory Session September 17, 2023 at 6:30 pm
Our Lady of Lourdes Parish Hall (attached to the Church) at 300 E. Highland Avenue, Ada.
Meeting every Sunday from 6:30 - 7:30 pm

Do you have a non Catholic family member or friend who might like to know more about the Catholic faith? Or know of someone who was baptized Catholic but has been away from the Church? Perhaps you know someone who has been coming to Mass for a while, but is not Catholic. Invite them to look deeper into the richness of Catholicism!  Come with them to meet with other faithful Catholics who are serving as catechists in the OCIA program.

OCIA, the Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (formerly RCIA), is a restoration of the ancient practice, which began around 350, as a process of discerning the stages of conversion leading to sacramental initiation. It is the parish community -through its witness, worship, service and catechesis- that offers the invitation and support necessary for men and women to be initiated in the Church. It is a time of inquiry, learning, prayer and discovery of community. Those participating have the opportunity to ask questions about the Church and to hear about the message of Jesus Christ and how it is lived out in the Catholic Church.

Who is the O.C.I.A. for?  

1. It is for those who have never been baptized. Through prayer and study of the faith they will enter the Church through baptism. Easter is the usual time for adult baptism in the Catholic Church.
2. It is also for those who are baptized and have joined us from another Christian tradition but have little knowledge and experience of what it means to be a Catholic Christian. To become Catholic they do not need to be baptized again. One may come into “Full Communion” by a period of study and participation in liturgy with our community. The Catholic Church respects the Christian upbringing and the faith experiences that are part of their lives. Becoming Catholic does not mean rejecting their previous faith background; it can now be lived out in the Catholic Church.
3. It is for adult Catholics who would like to complete the sacraments of initiation or who need to refresh or learn more about the faith they profess.  (Sacraments of Initiation are Baptism, Confirmation & Eucharist.)

If you are interested in learning more, please contact the Pastor or parish office.