In the Catholic Church the process to help an an adult, or child (7+), become Catholic is known as Order of Christian Initiation of Adults. It is more commonly referred to as Christian Initiation or OCIA. Christian Initiation is for

• Any unbaptized person who seeks to follow Christ in his Church as preparation for Christian discipleship through baptism, confirmation, and the Eucharist. 
• Anyone baptized from another Christian community seeking to be Catholic through preparation for Confirmation and Communion. 
• Any baptized Catholic (13+) who seeks to increase his devotion as a disciple of Jesus Christ through the realization of the other sacraments of initiation such as Confirmation and Communion.

Through OCIA, individuals take part in a journey of faith—learning about the teachings of the Church, developing a life of prayer, and deepening their relationship with Jesus Christ within a supportive community.

The OCIA process is based on stages of conversion and includes weekly sessions, rites celebrated at Mass, and a joyful reception into the Church, typically during the Easter season.

As the Catechism teaches, the sacraments of initiation “lay the foundations of every Christian life” (CCC 1212). OCIA is the Church’s way of helping people lay those foundations with care, community, and the love of Christ.

Becoming Catholic is more than just a class—it’s a journey of faith, discovery, and transformation. Whether you’re unbaptized, baptized in another Christian tradition, or a baptized Catholic, age 13 and above, who never received Confirmation and the Eucharist, the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA or Christian Initiation) is the Church’s pathway to full communion.

At St. Frances of Rome, we walk with you every step of the way. The OCIA process is thoughtful, welcoming, and centered on growing in relationship with Jesus and His Church.

To help you understand the process, we've outline all of the basic information below. Take a look to see what’s involved and how to get started! 

How Does the Christian Initiation Preparation Process Work?
At St. Frances of Rome, we walk with children, teens, adults, and their families through a meaningful preparation process that includes faith formation, prayer, service, and support from sponsors and the parish community. 

We have adopted a small group model for sessions at church that meets participants where they are, allows for real sharing, and allows for participants to grow in faith together.

Christian Initiation does not have a set timeline because it respects the individuality of the person and will vary based on their freedom, desires, and overall sacramental readiness. However, participants must be in formation for at least one full liturgical year.

What are the Requirements for this Process?
As a part of the process all individuals and families are asked to make the following commitments:

• Attend Mass Weekly
• Attend All Sessions at Church
• Attend Retreats as Scheduled
• Pray Together at Home
• Be Active in our Parish Community

What Topics Do We Cover?
The process begins by introducing or reintroducing individuals to the Gospel message through community, prayer, and helping them explore who Jesus is and why He matters. As they grow in faith and experience conversion, they learn about the teachings of Jesus and the Church and what it means to follow Christ. Once an individual is ready they receive deeper instruction on the sacraments themselves—what they are, why they matter, and how they shape our daily lives.

When Do We Meet for At Church Sessions?
Sessions are every Sunday beginning in September and continuing until June. Sessions begin with catechetical instruction from from 9:15am to 10:45am and conclude with the 11am Mass. Participants must attend all sessions and Mass. Occasionally there will be sessions where a minor will need to have their parent accompany them. There are also select sessions where an individual's sponsor must join them. These parent sessions and sponsor sessions will be indicated on the calendar.

Registration for the 2026-27 Formation Year will open on Sunday, July 5th

Important Information for Engaged or Civilly Married Couples
If you are currently engaged to be married or are already married outside of the Catholic Church (for example, in a civil ceremony or in another faith tradition), please take a moment to read the following information carefully.

This may affect how and when you are able to receive the Sacraments—especially Confirmation, Eucharist, or even how you proceed with marriage preparation in the Church.

Our goal is not to create obstacles, but to walk with you toward full communion with the Church and to help you prepare well for both the Sacraments and your vocation. Please know that we are here to support and guide you with compassion and care throughout this process.

• Getting Married in the Catholic Church - Notes for Engaged Couples
• Bringing Your Marriage Into the Church - Notes for Civilly Married Couples
• Introducir el Matrimonio en la Iglesia Notas para Parejas Casadas Civilmente
• Casarse por la Iglesia Católica Notas para Comprometidos