Information about OCIA

The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults

There are 1.2 billion Catholics worldwide, filling more than 221,700 parishes. Each year, many adults are called to join the Catholic faith. How does someone join the Catholic Church? Through a process called the OCIA.

Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is the process in which adults become full, participating members of the Catholic Church. Participants, known as catechumens, go through a process of studying the Gospel, nurturing their relationship with God, becoming familiar with the Catholic teachings and practices, professing their faith in Jesus and the Church, and receiving the sacraments of initiation: Baptism, Communion, and Confirmation. Our program also helps baptized Christians enter into full communion in the Catholic church. We also provide preparation for Catholics who desire reception of the Sacrament of Confirmation. 

OCIA Classes at St Sylvester Catholic Church are conducted from August through Easter each year. Classes are held each Tuesday during these months from 530 - 7pm. You can review our program content and schedule on the banner links calendar and course segments.

Ready to take the next step in your journey? Please contact our Director of Religious Education, Eileen Eley. You can email her at eleye@stsylv.org or call the front office at 850-939-3020.