BECOMING CATHOLIC 
OCIA | The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults
Christian Initiation is a journey, but it is not a journey to a destination but to a person, the person of Jesus Christ. “Becoming Catholic” is a response to God’s invitation by answering the call to follow Jesus as his disciple. This is a process of conversion, communion, and discipleship.
“Come, Follow me”. Mathew 4:19
The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) has its roots in the ancient Church, reaching back from the close of the First Century to the beginning of the Sixth Century. However, one of the directives of Vatican Council II was to restore and renew the Catechumenate-the ancient rites and process of adult faith formation.
The restored Order of Christian Initiation of Adults welcomes through the sacraments of initiation adults who have never been baptized; adults who have been baptized in other Christian communities; adults who were baptized Catholic but have not been catechized. Those who have never been baptized (Catechumens) receive baptism, confirmation and Eucharist. Men and women who have been baptized in other Christian communities or who are baptized and not catechized Catholic (Candidates) make a profession of faith and receive confirmation and Eucharist and are welcomed into full communion in the Catholic Church.
OCIA is ultimately about adult conversion and faith formation in a welcoming community. Adults experience our community, have opportunities to participate in scripture study, church teaching, faith sharing, friendship with a sponsor or godparent, and in the rituals that mark their progress toward the Easter Vigil.
St. William Parish has a year round process for those adults who have not been baptized, or have been baptized in another tradition and wish to become Catholic. You may join the process at any time of the year.
There are several periods of preparation including the Period of Inquiry - a time to ask questions and learn what the Church teaches - the Catechumenate, where a person discovers how God is acting in their everyday life, worships with us and becomes more conformed to Jesus.
At the end of the process, a person would become fully initiated in the Church, usually at Easter time.
For additional information you can click here.
If you have questions or wish to become involved in the process, contact Deacon Mike Chesley, Pastoral Associate 248-624-1421 ext. 345, or call the Parish Rectory office, 248-624-1421.
