OCIA
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"Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant also will be. My Father will honor the one who serves me." — John 12:26
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Order Of Christian Initiation For Adults (OCIA)Many adults entering the Catholic Church, or those just exploring the faith, follow a process known as the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA).
This program is a a journey of conversion and initiation into the Catholic Church. It offers a supportive space to encounter God and respond to His invitation to a new way of life in the Faith. Rooted in respect for each person's unique faith journey, OCIA provides time for prayer, study, and fellowship, allowing individuals to grow in their relationship with God and our parish community.
Join Our 2026-27 OCIA Program!OCIA classes for the 2026-27 year will start Wednesday, September 30 at 7:00 PM and will continue weekly on Wednesday evenings. A complete calendar will be posted soon. If you have any questions or are interested in joining, please call our Pastoral Associate, Erin Colcombe, at 412-531-5964.Our Pastor, Fr. Joseph Uzar, looks forward to speaking with you and answering any questions you may have about the OCIA journey!
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OCIA Used To Be RCIA Please note that OCIA used to be called the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA). This change was made in 2021, but the old name may still appear on helpful resources that were produced before the new name came into effect. -
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The OCIA ProcessInquiry: The initial period before you decide to enter the Catholic Church. You're asking questions and checking it out, but aren't yet ready to commit.
Catechumenate: Those who decide to enter the Church and are being trained for a life in Christ are called catechumens, an ancient name from the early Church. In this stage, you're developing your faith and are being "catechized"—learning catechism, or the basic points about Catholic faith and life.
Purification and Preparation: The Church will help you focus and intensify your faith as you prepare to commit your life to Christ and be received into the Church at Easter. If you're following the OCIA process, you'll go through a beautiful series of Gospel-based meditations during Lent.
Initiation: The culmination of the whole process! You're received into the Church during the Easter Vigil Mass, where you'll receive the sacraments of initiation: baptism, confirmation, and Eucharist. (If you've already been baptized, you won't be baptized again.) At St. Paul of the Cross Parish, First Reconciliation (Confession, Penance) is celebrated the Monday of Holy Week.
Mystagogy: After reception into the Church at Easter, this period lets you reflect and learn more about the mysteries of the Mass and the Sacraments that you now participate in fully.
(This was adapted from beginningcatholic.com)
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Christian Initiation ResourcesHave questions about the Catholic Faith?
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Get FORMED in the Faith FORMED offers a complete selection of documentaries, books, movies, Bible studies and audio talks on all aspects of the Catholic Faith.
Registration is FREE when you sign up with Saint Paul of the Cross Parish! Here's how:- Click on "Formed For Individuals."
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Exploring the beauty of the Catholic Faith has never been easier - at home, in the car, or from any internet-connected device! Discover thousands of content options... there's something for every member of the family to help them grow closer to Christ and His Church.
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United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB)The USCCB is a wonderful place for those who wish to learn about the Catholic Church. Their website offers a plethora of Catholic resources, including the daily Mass readings, ways to find parishes near you, Catholic news, videos, and podcasts.
You can also learn about aspects of the Catholic faith like the sacraments and prayers. There are helpful guides for understanding the Bible and the Mass, as well as an online version of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, an authoritative reference book that summarizes the core doctrines, beliefs, and teachings of the Church.
To learn more about what the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops shares regarding the OCIA process, please visit: www.usccb.org
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Beginning CatholicBeginning Catholic is an educational online resource for those who are interested in going through the OCIA program or want to learn more about the Catholic faith. It is a great starting place to dive into all the aspects of the faith with answers to common questions, access to and guidance for Catholic prayers, Catholic moral teachings, free downloadable eBooks, and more, all in one place.
Start exploring what Beginning Catholic has to offer at: www.beginningcatholic.com
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