Faith Formation - OCIA
OCIA Program at St. Gabriel Catholic Church
The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) at St. Gabriel is a welcoming and faith-filled process designed for adults who seek to enter or complete their initiation into the Catholic Church. Whether you are unbaptized, baptized in another Christian tradition, or a baptized Catholic who has not yet received Confirmation and Eucharist, OCIA offers a spiritual journey to learn, grow, and prepare for the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Communion
This program is more than just instruction; it is a formation in faith, prayer, and community life, supported by the entire parish family. OCIA participants experience the teachings of the Catholic Church, guided by scripture and the Catechism, while being accompanied by clergy, deacons, and lay catechists who share their knowledge and love of the faith
Key features of OCIA at St. Gabriel:
- Preparation typically begins in the fall and culminates with the reception of the sacraments at the Easter Vigil
- Sessions are held regularly, welcoming participants into a supportive community that prays and celebrates milestones together
- The program serves:
- Catechumens: Adults seeking Baptism and full initiation
- Candidates: Baptized Christians preparing for Confirmation and Eucharist
- Baptized Catholics: Those completing their initiation sacraments
- OCIA fosters conversion and formation to live out the Catholic faith fully in daily life
