Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA)
The Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) is the process for adults interested in becoming Catholic. This transformative journey includes opportunities to learn about the Catholic faith, deepen your relationship with God, and prepare to receive the sacraments of initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Eucharist.
Meeting Details:
- When: Wednesday evenings, 7:00–9:00 p.m.
- Where: Parish Community Center (located in the Rectory basement)
The RCIA process is divided into stages to guide participants through their spiritual journey.
Stages of the OCIA Process
- First Stage: Inquiry
- This initial stage is a time to ask questions about the Catholic faith in an open and welcoming environment. The length of this stage varies and may last several weeks or longer.
- Second Stage: Catechumenate
- In this teaching phase, participants learn about Catholic beliefs, worship, moral living, and prayer. Typically, this stage lasts about six months but can range from several weeks to a year or more, depending on individual readiness and discernment by the RCIA team.
- Third Stage: Purification and Enlightenment
- This stage, lasting approximately six weeks during the Lenten season, is a time of spiritual preparation and reflection. Participants focus on deepening their relationship with God as they prepare to receive the sacraments of initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Eucharist.
- Final Stage: Mystagogy
- After receiving the sacraments of initiation, participants enter the period of Mystagogy. This stage, which lasts several weeks, provides an opportunity for reflection on their experiences of becoming Catholic. It also focuses on discerning how to actively participate in the faith community and ministries at Holy Cross Parish.
Interested in Becoming Catholic?
If you are considering this journey of faith, we invite you to contact the Parish Rectory at 859-431-0636 and leave a message for David Arnold. We are excited to walk with you on this meaningful path.