The OCIA Journey in 2025-2026

Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is full of energy and youth this year. We currently have seven adults and two teenagers seeking to join the Catholic Church or to complete their Sacraments of Initiation. This creates a dynamic program for our church and generates excitement to see the younger generations seeking God. Each of them has a unique reason to enter the church or reconnect with Catholicism.

We had our Rite of Entrance and Acceptance at Mass on the first Sunday of Advent. At that time, these inquirers took the first formal step on the road to becoming fully Catholic by professing their intent to seek further knowledge of our faith. We look forward to the next rite on the first Sunday of Lent, along with an upcoming day-long retreat.

So why do these inquirers seek the Catholic Church? What attracts them to us? 

One of our catechumens stated he and his mom had been part of a reformed church and his faith led him to our Catholic Church. Both of them attended other Catholic parishes, but after attending Mass here at Sacred Heart they knew in their hearts they belonged here. They found our parish welcoming, encouraging, and accepting. That is a compliment to our parishioners.

The remainder of the catechumens and candidates are seeking God with encouragement from family and friends. Two of these adults have children who are also receiving instruction in our faith and these candidates, by completing their Sacraments of Initiation, can help guide their children as they grow into Catholicism.

The others want to reconnect with God and feel the Catholic Church is where they want to be. They are happy in our process and are looking forward to being confirmed.

Our Tuesday evenings allow for much enlightenment, prayer, and discussion about Scripture, our faith, and prayer. OCIA is blessed with a dedicated team and sponsors to support these adults on their faith journey. Our priests and deacons provide inspiration and guidance to us. We thank Fr. Mark, especially, for his dedication to our catechumens, candidates, and the entire OCIA community.

Please continue to pray for us as we get closer to the Easter Vigil and these catechumens and candidates continue pursuing their life journey of faith in our church.