Become Catholic/Complete Your Sacraments

ORDER OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS (OCIA)

If you have ever thought about becoming Catholic, have not completed Confirmation or another sacrament, or want to learn more about the Catholic faith, then OCIA is for you! 

Frequently Asked Questions:

How do I know if OCIA is for me?

OCIA is for any GW student who is:

• Interested in being baptized.

• A baptized Christian of another denomination who is interested in learning more about Catholicism or is interested in converting.

• A baptized Catholic who has not yet received their first Communion, Confession, or Confirmation.

What exactly does the process entail?

OCIA is done in four stages. The descriptions are as follows:

1. Precatechumenate or Inquiry Period – This is a time to ask questions, build community, learn about the faith and conversion of heart.

2. Catechumenate – This is a longer period marked by continued learning of the faith and its doctrines while also deepening one’s prayer life and sense of community.

3. Period of Enlightenment and Purification – This is a more intense time of preparation for the sacraments. This period runs through Lent and is a time of deep prayer, conversion, and discernment.

4. Mystagogy – This describes the period of time when the newly initiated Catholics are drawn more deeply into the life of the Church.

Is this a high-pressure program to become Catholic?

Not at all! There is no pressure to receive the sacraments or to become Catholic. We simply want to provide the means necessary if that is what you decide God is calling you to do. We are here to help you discern through prayer, instruction, discussion, and community.
 

If you would like more information, have other questions about OCIA, or would like to begin the OCIA process, please contact Rae, the campus minister, at [email protected].