“Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men.” – Matthew 9:14

 Would you like to learn more about the Catholic Faith?

Are you interested in becoming Catholic?

Are you an adult seeking First Communion and Confirmation?

If any of these questions pertain to you, then we welcome you to join us for OCIA this year.  OCIA or “Order of Christian Initiation of Adults”, welcomes adults into the Church through a process of studying and learning the Faith.  OCIA allows one to discuss and pursue faith questions, connect with others on a similar path, and learn to become a disciple of Christ.

You are invited to join OCIA if you are an adult who has never been baptized, who was baptized in another denomination or who was baptized Catholic but not yet received First Communion and Confirmation.

What is OCIA?

The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is the process established for the universal Church for individuals to become Catholic and receive the sacraments of initiation — Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist. This initiation process also involves a parish community experiencing a renewal in faith as it prepares and welcomes new members into the Church.

The Rite speaks of conversion as a “spiritual journey.” Centered on fostering a deep relationship with Jesus and the Church, this journey takes place through distinct stages over a period of time suitable to bring about a thorough catechesis, significant experience of the parish community, and commitment to the liturgical and moral life of the Catholic faithful.

 How do I know if the OCIA is right for me?

The OCIA process is designed for adults who are unbaptized or those who were baptized as infants but had little experience with regular church attendance. Individuals baptized in another Christian tradition often find this process to be helpful in their discernment of becoming Roman Catholic.

Adults (age 18 and older)

Adults who are seeking initiation into the Catholic Church are prepared through a process called the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA). The following adults are invited to be a part of the OCIA process:

• Any adult not yet baptized and who wishes to become Catholic
• Any adult baptized in another Christian Church who wishes to become Catholic
• Any adult baptized in the Catholic Church, but not raised in the faith and who seeks full initiation into the Church

Adults are prepared for the Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, and First Eucharist. Anyone interested in exploring the possibility of joining the Roman Catholic community here at St. Mary by the Lake Catholic Church is invited to contact the parish office at 262-639-3616.

Children and Youth (ages 7-18)

Children are prepared for initiation through our regular Christian Formation process with additional formation with a catechist and sponsor family. Children are prepared for First Eucharist and Confirmation, where appropriate. Contact the parish office at 262-639-3616 for more information.