
Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA)
Are you an adult seeking a deeper relationship with God—a life grounded in faith, hope, and charity?
Have you recently experienced a moment in prayer, Scripture, or conversation that stirred something in your heart—perhaps a call from God to come closer, to inquire about the Catholic faith, or to take the next step in your spiritual journey?
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Are you unbaptized and feeling drawn to the Christian faith?
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Are you a baptized Christian curious about becoming Catholic?
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Were you raised Catholic but have yet to complete your Sacraments of Initiation
(Baptism, Holy Communion, or Confirmation)?
The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) at Visitation Parish welcomes you.
This process is for adults who are seeking full initiation into the Catholic Church. It’s a guided journey of faith, reflection, and transformation that prepares you to receive the Sacraments of Initiation at Easter. Whether you're curious, discerning, or ready to begin, OCIA offers a space to explore and grow in faith within a supportive community.
OCIA is for:
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Adults who have never been baptized
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Baptized Christians seeking full communion with the Catholic Church
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Baptized Catholics who have not yet received Holy Communion or Confirmation
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Fully initiated Catholics who want to grow in their relationship with Jesus and His Church, in community
Starting in the fall and throughout the year, we gather weekly as a group with a dedicated and diverse team of Visitation community members. Together, we walk through a rich process of sharing the Christian Gospel, catechesis, prayer, and fellowship. Sessions include discussion, Scripture study, reflection on key teachings of the Church and participation in the liturgy. Abundant resources are offered through visits from community members, books, articles and other media. Many of the resources may also be accessed at home.
Traditionally, OCIA is a two-year process. However, at Visitation—and throughout our Archdiocese—we offer a comprehensive one-year process, beginning each fall and culminating in the celebration of the Sacraments at the Easter Vigil. That said, we honor the uniqueness of each individual’s faith journey. Whether your path requires more time or moves quickly, we will walk with you every step of the way.
Come journey with us.
If you’re an adult interested in becoming fully initiated into the Catholic Church, we invite you to join the OCIA process at Visitation. Come share your story, explore the richness of our faith, and grow in relationship with God, His Church, and our parish community.
For more information about OCIA at Visitation please email Debra Evans, Director of Religious Education and Sacrament Preparation.
If you are already a parishioner and feel called to accompany others on this journey of faith, consider joining our OCIA team as a sponsor or volunteer. There’s a place for you here.